Which oxygen deficiency level is associated with a generally fatal outcome within the shortest time frame?

A level of oxygen deficiency between 4-6% is critically low and is associated with a generally fatal outcome within a very short time frame. At this concentration of oxygen, the body struggles to function as essential physiological processes, including respiration and cognitive functions, begin to fail rapidly. Within this range, individuals may lose consciousness in seconds, and death can occur within a few minutes due to a lack of oxygen to vital organs.

In contrast, the higher levels of oxygen deficiency, such as 6-8%, 8-10%, and 10-12%, allow for slightly better survival times, as the body still has some capacity to utilize the remaining oxygen. However, they can still be dangerous and are associated with varying degrees of impairment, such as disorientation, diminished physical abilities, and the potential for loss of consciousness, albeit over a longer duration compared to the 4-6% range. Understanding the impact of oxygen levels is crucial for ensuring safety in environments where gas exposure may occur.