What preventive measure can be taken to avoid asphyxiation in confined spaces?

Increasing ventilation is a critical preventive measure to avoid asphyxiation in confined spaces. Confined spaces often have limited airflow, which can lead to a buildup of harmful gases or a depletion of oxygen. By enhancing ventilation, air can circulate more freely, introducing fresh air and diluting any hazardous gases present. This can significantly reduce the risk of asphyxiation, as a well-ventilated space helps maintain sufficient oxygen levels for any individuals working or entering the area.

Posting warning signs is important for raising awareness about potential hazards and ensuring that workers are informed about the risks associated with confined spaces, but it does not actively prevent asphyxiation. Using gas detectors is also a valuable safety measure as it monitors the atmosphere for dangerous gas levels, providing alerts to workers. However, these tools are not preventive measures in themselves; they function more as monitoring devices to ensure safety during operations.

Closing all exits, on the other hand, would create a more hazardous situation, as it would limit escape routes in case of an emergency. Therefore, while warning signs and gas detectors play supportive roles in safety protocol, increasing ventilation directly addresses the prevention of asphyxiation by ensuring adequate air quality and flow in confined spaces.