Which statement about oxygen safety is true?

• A. Oxygen is safe in enclosed environments.
• B. Oxygen supports combustion and may cause a fire.
• C. Oxygen cylinders must always remain upright.
• D. Oxygen is non-flammable.

Answer: (B)

Safety around oxygen hinges on understanding that it doesn’t burn itself, but it greatly supports and accelerates combustion. When oxygen levels are higher than normal, materials ignite more easily, flames burn hotter, and a small ignition source can lead to a significant fire. That’s why the true statement about oxygen safety is that oxygen supports combustion and may cause a fire. This captures the essential risk and guides the practical precautions: eliminate ignition sources, avoid petroleum-based products near oxygen, ensure good ventilation, and secure and handle oxygen equipment properly to prevent leaks or sparks.

The other ideas aren’t accurate: enclosing oxygen-rich environments without controls increases fire risk, keeping cylinders upright is standard safety practice but not an absolute rule in every situation, and saying oxygen is non-flammable misstates that it doesn’t burn but does not prevent fires because it fuels them.