The atmosphere in some confined spaces is dangerous to humans. One mechanism involves both oxygen depletion and increased levels of carbon dioxide.
Synonyms: confined space hypoxia syndrome, stagnant air syndrome
Mechanism: Organisms in an enclosed space consume oxygen and release carbon dioxide. Over time the oxygen concentration declines and the carbon dioxide increases to dangerous levels.
Features:
(1) There is a confined space, often sealed for some time.
(2) A person going into the space becomes unconscious or dies.
(3) Measurement of gases in the air show low oxygen (much below 21%) and increased carbon dioxide.
(4) Exclusion of other mechanisms.
In practice other toxic gases are likely to be present such as carbon monoxide. The final classification would have to be based on atmospheric analysis.
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