Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odourless and tasteless gas formed by the incomplete combustion of fuel.
However, as dangerous as it can be, it can kill very fast.
It usually displaces oxygen in human bodies and causes people to asphyxiate to death.
Which activities can generate CO in the workplace?
- Incomplete burning of fuel. Fuels such as gasoline, wood, diesel, etc.
- Tobacco smoke from
- Boilers
- Water heaters
- Incomplete burning of fuel from combustion engines through exhaust pipes.
Most times, when there is less oxygen to breathe with, there will be more CO to contend with.
People are at greater risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Young people.
- Elderly.
- Children
- Persons with severe cases of respiratory conditions like asthma.
- People with sickle cell conditions.
- Persons with cardiovascular diseases.
- Unborn babies
How does carbon monoxide poisoning happen?
The CO builds up in the bloodstream and replaces the oxygen in the red blood cells resulting in CO poisoning.
Symptoms of CO poisoning.
- Blurred vision.
- Weakness.
- Confusion.
- Shortness of breath.
- Headache.
- Vomiting.
- Nausea.
- loss of consciousness.
Carbon monoxide: what can you do to promote CO safety?
- Have routine maintenance for all fuel-operated equipment on site.      Â
- Inspect all heating equipment on-site at all times.
- Do not use fuel-operated equipment when not in order. Always use the right equipment.Â
- Report all cases of carbon monoxide accumulation on-site and make a report on it immediately.
- Ensure to install a CO alarm in places where CO risk is high.
- Do not ignore the Carbon monoxide alarm. Your response may be a thin line between life and death.
- Learn to identify the symptoms of CO poisoning. It’ll help you to escape to safety.
- Seek medical help immediately when you notice any of the symptoms of CO poisoning.
- If there is a fireplace in your workplace, ensure to keep it in good order.
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Onyeka Emma is a QHSE Professional with more than 10 years of experience in occupational health and safety, which spans many industries such as construction, beverage, oil and gas, etc. He has many health and safety certifications, including NEBOSH IGC, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018 Lead auditor certificate. A member of IOSH, ISPON, and Nigeria Red Cross Society. He is interested in business, entrepreneurship, Speaking, and motivating people to do better for themselves. He enjoys leisure with a good motivational book.
