Adequacy of ventilation in enclosed rooms shall be determined by who?

• A. Plant Supervisor
• B. Safety Officer
• C. Quality Assurance
• D. Facilities Manager

Answer: (B)

Ventilation adequacy in enclosed spaces is a safety issue because it directly affects air quality and the potential for hazardous atmospheres. The Safety Officer is responsible for safety programs and for determining whether the work environment meets required air-quality standards. They assess whether ventilation provides sufficient air exchange, controls contaminants, and maintains safe oxygen levels, using measurements and regulatory requirements to make a determination. This authority ensures that entry into enclosed rooms is authorized only when conditions are safe, or that additional ventilation or controls are put in place.

While others may be involved—such as operations staff who run the workplace or the Facilities Manager who maintains HVAC systems—the formal determination of whether ventilation is adequate rests with the Safety Officer, who oversees safety compliance and risk reduction related to air quality.