Carbon monoxide (CO) is a highly poisonous substance produced by the incomplete burning of gas and Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG).
When CO accumulate? This happens when a gas appliance has been incorrectly fitted, badly repaired or poorly maintained. It can also occur if flues, chimneys or vents are blocked.
Oil and solid fuels such as coal, wood, petrol and oil can also produce carbon monoxide.
Causes of CO Poisoning
You can be in danger of Carbon Monoxide poisoning at home/ company if dangerous amounts of Carbon Monoxide accumulate in the home/ company. This can happen as a result of any or a combination of the following:
- Faulty or damaged heating appliances
- Heating appliance not maintained or serviced
- Rooms not properly ventilated
- Blocked chimneys or flues
- Indoor use of a barbecue grill or outdoor heater
- Poor installation of heating appliances
- Improper operation of heating appliances
- Property alterations or home improvements, which reduce ventilation
- Running engines such as vehicles or lawnmowers in garages
- Using cooking appliances for heating purposes
You can’t see it, taste it or smell it but it can kill quickly and with no warning.
CO poisoning – The six main symptoms to look out for:
- headaches
- dizziness
- nausea
- breathlessness
- collapse
- loss of consciousness
Because carbon monoxide has no taste, smell or colour. Gas Safe Register strongly recommends you fit an audible carbon monoxide alarm in your home/ company.
While an alarm will alert you to carbon monoxide in your home, it is no substitute for having an annual gas safety check and regular servicing by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Cannon Fire Safety Group has all Fire safety appliances that you or your company needs, including CO smoke alarms! Contact us for more details by email: info@cfsg.ie or call us on 01 295 7540. Nationwide service.
