What safety concern arises when handling oxygen systems near flammable materials?

The presence of oxygen in any environment significantly enhances the potential for combustion. When handling oxygen systems near flammable materials, the critical safety concern is that oxygen supports combustion. This means that higher concentrations of oxygen can cause materials that might not normally ignite in air to catch fire more easily and burn more intensely.

In atmospheric conditions, oxygen makes up about 21% of the air, and this concentration is usually safe for a variety of activities. However, when oxygen levels are increased—such as from an oxygen system—the threshold for ignition is lowered, and the fire's intensity can increase dramatically. Flammable materials that are not normally a fire hazard can ignite quickly in an oxygen-rich environment. Therefore, increased vigilance and strict safety protocols are necessary when working with oxygen systems near combustible materials to prevent fires.

The other options present misunderstandings about oxygen and combustion. For instance, the suggestion that oxygen can dilute flammable gases is inaccurate since oxygen concentrations primarily enhance the flammability of materials. The belief that oxygen is non-combustible fails to consider its role as a key supporter of combustion processes. Lastly, stating that oxygen decreases fire risk misrepresents the behavior of oxygen in the presence of flammable substances.