And it's not just because of your boss's bad breath…
A common misconception of Carbon dioxide is that it isn’t bad for you because it is what we breathe out every day. And you would be partially right.
We are surrounded by Carbon Dioxide constantly as it is naturally occurring in our atmosphere and is a key part of the everyday process known as breathing. When we breathe, we intake oxygen into our lungs, which oxygenates our blood cells and in turn, releases CO2. You do it, I do it, your dog does it, so it's hard to avoid. However, its when all of the windows and doors are shut that the situation can get a bit sticky…and stinky.
In the UK, the government-regulated exposure limits of CO2 are 15000 ppm (short term or STEL) and 5000ppm (long term or TWA). This may seem like a lot, but you have to remember about the atmospheric CO2 and those around you breathing every day. On top of this, CO2 can quickly displace Oxygen in a confined space as it is heavier than air and cannot be seen or smelt, meaning a build-up can unknowingly occur quicker than expected.
CO2 is also classed as a hazardous gas under COSHH, causing issues such as dizziness, headaches, loss of consciousness and asphyxiation at high levels. So, fatalities from CO2 occur a lot more than you would expect. And as mentioned in one of our previous articles, carbon dioxide can crop up in more places than you expect, so it is key to keep an eye on whether CO2 is something to worry about in your workplace.
So, if you ever feel the need to open the window because of someone's smelly breath, just do it! It's for the good of your nose and your health.