What is a primary danger of working in an oxygen-rich atmosphere?

An oxygen-rich atmosphere significantly elevates the risk of fire and explosion due to its potential to react violently with many common materials. When oxygen levels exceed what is typically found in the environment—around 21%—the flammability of materials increases dramatically. This heightened sensitivity can lead to combustibles catching fire more readily and burning more vigorously.

For example, materials that are usually regarded as non-flammable in standard atmospheric conditions may ignite in an oxygen-rich environment. Additionally, oils, greases, fibers, and various metals can all behave differently when exposed to high concentrations of oxygen, potentially leading to serious safety hazards for workers.

In contrast, increased humidity, the notion that oxygen-rich atmospheres are safe, or ineffective combustion do not appropriately address the critical risks associated with elevated oxygen levels. Increased humidity may have its own effects, but it is not directly related to the dangers posed by oxygen enrichment. The idea that oxygen-rich environments are safe fundamentally misunderstands the inherent hazards. Lastly, while combustion can be influenced by oxygen concentration, an oxygen-rich environment does not create ineffective combustion; rather, it typically enhances the combustive process.