CARBON MONOXIDE
Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels such as gas, oil, coal and wood do not burn fully. Burning charcoal, running cars and the smoke from cigarettes also produce carbon monoxide gas.
Gas, oil, coal and wood are sources of fuel used in many household appliances, including:
- Boilers
- Gas Fireplaces
- Central Heating Systems
- Water Heaters
- Stoves
- Open Fires
Monoxide Poisoning
SOURCES OF CO
The main cause of accidental exposure to carbon monoxide (CO) is household appliances, such as cooking and heating devices, which have been damaged, incorrectly installed or badly maintained. The risk of exposure to carbon monoxide from portable devices may also be higher in caravans, boats and mobile homes.
Other possible causes of carbon monoxide poisoning include:
- Blocked flues and chimneys – this can stop carbon monoxide escaping, allowing it to reach dangerous levels.
- Burning fuel in an enclosed or non-ventilated space – for example, running a car engine, petrol-powered generator or barbecue inside a garage.
- Faulty or blocked car exhausts – a leak or a blockage in the exhaust pipe, such as after heavy snowfall, could lead to a build-up of carbon monoxide
- Paint fumes – some cleaning fluids and paint removers contain methylene chloride (dichloromethane), which can cause carbon monoxide poisoning if breathed in
- Smoking shisha pipes indoors – shisha pipes burn charcoal and tobacco, which can lead to a build-up of carbon monoxide in enclosed or unventilated rooms.
OTHER SOURCES OF CO
SOLUTIONS
Measurement Devices : : Carbon Monoxide Detectors, Indoor Air Quality Monitor, Specialized Air Purifiers.
Burning fuel in an enclosed or non-ventilated space – for example, running a car engine, petrol-powered generator or barbecue inside a garage.
Mitigation : – Manual Increase in ventilation ( opening windows and doors, use of ceiling and exhaust fans ) Mechanical ventilation ( Furnace Blower, HRV, HRE ) Air Purifiers ( mid-large sized rooms)