Hazardous concentrations of Carbon Dioxide Solid (Dry Ice) and gas (CO2 gas) in enclosed areas can occur quickly and without warning resulting in serious health issues or death.

CO2 gas is colorless, odorless and not easily detectable.   CO2 can be deadly even when normal oxygen levels are present.  At normal temperatures, dry ice returns to being CO2 gas.

Because CO2 gas is 1.5 times heavier than air, leaking CO2 can accumulate at floor level in unventilated rooms not limited to the container's location, and in low areas such as basements.  Even small, slow leaks can cause hazardous concentrations of CO2.  Ventilation systems should exhaust from the lowest level and allow make-up air to enter at a higher point to maintain a safe environment.

Potential sources of hazardous concentrations of CO2 can include, but are not limited to:

• CO2 storage containers that are not properly vented to a well-ventilated area outside of the building not just into walls or ceilings:
• Leaking fittings, connections, piping/tubing/hoses, or storage container plumbing;
• Leaking carbonators, syrup pumps, Bag in Box (BIB) racks (any equipment using CO2); and
• Leaking beer keg connections and equipment.

CO2 detectors with alarm systems should be installed in appropriate areas to detect hazardous concentrations of CO2.  Do not depend upon measuring the oxygen content of the air because CO2 can be dangerous even with enough oxygen for life support.  Lights, strobes and/or alarms mean:  Danger -- There is a CO2 leak.

CO2 beverage systems, detectors and ventilation equipment neeeds to be properly maintained and periodically inspected per the manufacturer's recommendations.  Operators and users should be trained to understand the proper installation and operation of CO2 systems and storage containers as well as the properties and hazards of CO2 as provided in CGA G-6, Carbon Dioxide