Why is oxygen concentration important in assessing IDLH environments?

Oxygen concentration is critical in assessing Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) environments because specific levels of oxygen are necessary to sustain human life. An oxygen concentration of less than 19.5% is considered hazardous and poses an immediate risk to human health. In an IDLH scenario, this low concentration can lead to asphyxiation or other detrimental health effects, highlighting the need for proper monitoring and response in environments where oxygen levels may be compromised.

Understanding this is essential for safety protocols in various settings, including agricultural and industrial contexts where pesticides or other hazardous materials are present. Monitoring oxygen levels helps ensure that individuals are protected from potentially fatal environments where oxygen deficiency could occur.