Expert: Neal Okerson - 6/3/2005

Question
Hello, at every engineering office I have worked in, I have noticed that everyone drinks caffeine constantly, but still become noticeable sleepy.
I cannot tolerate much caffeine and become sleepy and have vision problems, too.
Whenever I am able to open a window, or am able to spend time outside, the sleepy/vision problem disappears. There is always someone who objects to an open window in the office, so that is not an option. In MHO, every enclosed office I have worked in is a low-oxygen/high mold environment and is not healthy.
But I need to work. Could I supplement my oxygen every hour for a few minutes and help myself in this environment? Any ideas you have would be appreciated.
Linda Harriman

Answer
How has the oxygen level been measured and what is the %? For a building to have a low oxygen level three things would have to happen: 1. The building would need to be sealed air tight. 2. The building would not have any air exchange from the HVAC system. 3. A lot of people in a tight space. In fact a build up of carbon dioxide would cause serious problems before a drop the oxygen level would occur. All of this seems very unlikely.

Unless a person is sick with certain types of respiratory illnesses, extra oxygen is not needed. In fact extra oxygen produces more free radicals - which speeds up the aging process.

Most likely a good room air filter (the HEPA type) would be the most benefitial and would not get your coworkers in a fit. It would remove the mold and freshen the air to make it healthier and more comfortable for you. I would stick with a more basic model. The extra bells and whistles don't seem to help the air quality. Just look for the most cubic feet of filtered air for the money.

Neal