Which of the following is a potential cause of smothering in confined spaces?

Low oxygen levels are a significant potential cause of smothering in confined spaces. In an enclosed environment, oxygen can be depleted by various processes, such as breathing or chemical reactions, leading to insufficient levels for sustaining life. When oxygen levels fall below safe thresholds, individuals can experience difficulty in breathing, which can quickly lead to serious health risks, including suffocation or smothering. Understanding the importance of maintaining proper oxygen levels in confined spaces is crucial for safety compliance and health.

Open ventilation, high temperatures, and excessive light do not directly cause smothering. While open ventilation typically allows for the exchange of air, helping to maintain oxygen levels, high temperatures can lead to heat stress but are not directly linked to smothering. Similarly, excessive light does not pose a risk of smothering but may impact visibility and comfort. Therefore, recognizing low oxygen levels as a primary concern in confined spaces is vital in ensuring safety protocols are effectively implemented.