10 CO210-en-EU_V1.2 8/14
CO
2
Levels and Guidelines
Non-Enforced Reference levels:
250 - 350 ppm – background (normal) outdoor air level
350- 1,000 ppm - typical level found in occupied spaces with good air exchange.
1,000 – 2,000 ppm - level associated with complaints of drowsiness and poor air.
2,000 – 5,000 ppm – level associated with headaches, sleepiness, and stagnant, stale,
stuffy air. Poor concentration, loss of attention, increased heart rate and slight nausea may
also be present.
>5,000 ppm – Exposure may lead to serious oxygen deprivation resulting in permanent brain
damage, coma and even death.
Regulatory exposure limits:
ASHRAE Standard 62-1989: 1000ppm: CO
2
concentration in occupied building should not
exceed 1000ppm.
OSHA: 5000ppm: Time weighted average over five 8-hour work days should not exceed
5000ppm
Building bulletin 101 (Bb101): 1500ppm. UK standards for schools say that CO
2
at averaged
over the whole day (i.e. 9am to 3.30 pm) should not exceed 1500ppm.
Germany, Japan, Australia, UK: 5000ppm, 8 hours weighted average occupational exposure
limit is 5000ppm.
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