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obvious hazards of intense heat, open flame, smoke inhalation, and flying objects, but <br /> may also cause the release of toxic chemicals into the environment Such releases can <br /> threaten both personnel on site and members of the general public living or working <br /> nearby To protect against the hazard have qualified personnel field monitor for <br /> n1 explosive atmospheres and flammable vapors, keep all potential ignition sources away <br /> from an explosive or flammable environment, use non-sparking, explosion-proof <br /> equipment, and follow safe practices when performing any task that might result in the <br /> agitation or release of chemicals <br /> 5.3 Oxygen Deficiency <br /> The oxygen content of normal air at sea level is approximately 21 percent by volume <br /> Physiological effects of oxygen deficiency in humans are readily apparent when the <br /> oxygen concentration drops below 19 5 percent by volume Oxygen concentrations <br /> lower than 16 percent by volume can result in nausea and vomiting, brain damage, <br />� . unconsciousness, and death To take into account individual physiological responses and <br /> errors in measurement, concentrations of 19 5 percent oxygen or lower are considered to <br /> be indicative of oxygen deficiency <br /> Oxygen deficiency may result from the displacement of oxygen by another gas, or the <br /> f' consumption of oxygen by a chemical reaction Confined spaces or low-lying areas are <br /> particularly vulnerable to oxygen deficiency and should always be monitored prior to <br /> entry Qualified field personnel should always monitor oxygen levels and should use <br /> atmosphere-supplying respiratory equipment when oxygen concentrations drop below <br /> 19 5 percent by volume <br /> 5.4 Biologic Hazards <br /> r <br /> Wastes from hospitals and research facilities may contain disease-causing organisms that <br /> could infect site personnel Like chemical hazards, etiologic agents may be dispersed in <br /> the environment via water and wind Other biologic hazards that may be present at a <br /> hazardous waste site include poisonous plants, insects, animals and indigenous <br /> pathogens Protective clothing and respiratory equipment can help reduce the chances of <br />� s\HF5\STOCKTON\HSP001 J 10/15/99 5-6 <br />