Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is one of the many common molecules found in the air. It is a colourless gas which is harmless in small quantities but can have increasing health effects as concentration levels rise.

It is usually emitted by humans through the breathing process, but can also be created through various forms of combustion such as cooking and the use of automobiles. Too much CO2 in the atmosphere can cause headaches and other mental problems like drowsiness or restlessness and has been associated with lowered productivity and illness.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is measured in parts per million (ppm).

This is the typical level of CO2 concentration in indoor spaces with proper ventilation and air exchange. No problems are associated with this level of carbon dioxide in the air.

Fresh air contains about 400ppm, and keeping the levels at 600ppm or less will keep most rooms fresh.

Air starts becoming stale at this point and people can experience drowsiness and loss of concentration. While loss of consciousness normally doesn’t occur at this point, there will be various levels of impaired cognitive performance and reduced energy for people exposed to these conditions. At 2,000 ppm headaches are common and people may be induced to sleep.

The air is noticeably stuffy at these levels and problems with concentration, attention, nausea, and sleepiness can occur. Headaches are common and people may also experience increased heart rates.

5,000 ppm is the 8-hour exposure limit for workspaces and is considered an unhealthy level. Approaching 40,000 ppm can immediately cause serious oxygen deprivation issues and result in permanent brain damage, coma or even death.

SOURCE: OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY (OHS)

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