Can You Run Out Of Oxygen In An Elevator?

Can you run out of Oxygen in an Elevator? When you become stuck in the elevator it is really frightening. For many of us, it is our worst fear. They say not to panic, but it is hard to remain calm when we don’t know whether we will keep breathing or if we will run out of oxygen while waiting to be rescued. Well, lifts are not actually airtight, so know you won’t run out of oxygen in an elevator, you can breathe freely.

When Stuck in Elevator

To start with the average elevator contains about 8000 liters of oxygen, and if two people were stuck in the lift this would last about 18 hours. However, the air is entering the elevator from the shaft through various cracks, so new oxygen is coming in all the time. It is a matter of staying calm and making sure that someone knows where you are so that they can work on getting you out.

If there is a phone in the lift call the maintenance number listed, otherwise get someone on your cell phone. Usually, when the lift is stationary you can at least send a text to someone who can help you.

Oxygen in the Elevator

We have established that you will be able to breathe, but it may take time to get you released from the lift. Older lifts without phones often have an alarm button, so if there is one in your lift, press it. Sometimes the lights go out, plunging you into darkness, and this means that there has been a power failure. If the light comes on it will start moving again.

So don’t try to escape, as this is really dangerous, and you will get out. Never try to open the door as you will most likely be between floors.

When Stuck in Elevator you have Oxygen

If you are stuck in the elevator and you have oxygen, make yourself comfortable. Sit down on the floor with your smartphone and dial a friend, if they answer, it is the perfect opportunity for a chat, we are all time poor and you may as well use the time to your advantage. Or alternatively, remember noughts and crosses if you have a pen and paper, this is the ideal game for two people to play, when stuck in a lift.

The elevator may shudder or move a bit, this is a good sign as it means it is trying to get going. If help has come you may hear voices outside using machinery, call out and they probably are able to hear you, as they will be working to get the lift operational again.

When stuck in an Elevator You are Safe

Never jump up and down in an elevator as this won’t get it to move, stay still and let the mechanics free you. If you are with another person, at least you will have someone to talk to, making the time go more quickly. If you are carrying your cigarettes, this is not a good time to smoke. Just sit on the floor and conserve your energy, you won’t die of dehydration and hunger in a few short hours.

Stuck in Elevator at Work

If you are stuck in the work elevator, you may have been on your way to an important meeting. This is a Work Health and Safety issue, so make some notes about the incident to be tabled at the next monthly WH&S meeting. Always try to think strategically, it is much better than panicking and it means that you are always able to be productive.

Staying calm is important, as when the door finally opens there will be people there to greet you. So brush your hair reapply makeup, be ready for the cameras (depending on how long you have been there), and the welcoming committee.

Can You Run Out Of Oxygen In An Elevator? – Conclusion

After being stuck in the elevator you will be released, and everyone in the office will say how brave you were, and what a horrible experience to go through. You will just smile and say that you were happy to breathe the oxygen and wait to be released while hoping that it doesn’t happen to anyone panicky!