A Study on Environmental Measurement of Confined Spaces to Prevent Asphyxiation Accidents in Military Hospital Facilities

Objective: This study aims to assess air quality in confined spaces within military hospitals to prevent asphyxiation hazards. Poor ventilation in such areas can lead to oxygen deficiency and the accumulation of hazardous gases, posing risks to workers. Given the presence of medical equipment and chemical storage, systematic air quality management is essential in military hospitals.Method: Air quality measurements were conducted in four confined spaces―wastewater treatment plants, wastewater chemical storage rooms, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (boiler) rooms, and medical gas storage rooms―across 12 military hospitals. A multifunctional gas detector was used to measure six gases: oxygen (O2), carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), lower explosive limit (LEL) gases, and total volatile organic compounds (TVOC).Results : Oxygen levels ranged from 20.5% to 20.8%, while carbon dioxide concentrations varied between 448.4 ppm and 563.4 ppm. Carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulfide were detected at low levels, measuring 0-2.1 ppm and 0-0.2 ppm, respectively. TVOC concentrations ranged from 1.2 ppm to 2.6 ppm. Although no immediate hazards were identified, fluctuations in air quality indicate the need for continuous monitoring.Conclusion : This study evaluated air quality in confined spaces within military hospitals and identified several limitations of data interpretation. While no critical risks were found, further research is needed to analyze long-term environmental factors and air quality variations. These findings provide a foundation for improving workplace safety and air quality management in military hospital environments.