Safety for Employees: Carbon Dioxide for Employees

People inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide. This odorless, colorless compound is not poisonous, but it can be dangerous in two ways. First, in its gaseous state, CO2 displaces oxygen, so it can cause suffocation in high concentrations. Second, carbon dioxide in its solid state, also known as dry ice, can cause frostbite if it comes in contact with the skin.