From September 1st 2014

Where a new or replacement open-flues or clueless combustion appliance, not designed solely for cooking purposes, is installed in a dwelling, a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm should be provided:

(a) in the room where the appliance is located, and

(b) either inside each bedroom or, within 5m (16ft.) of the bedroom door, measured along the path of the corridor.

Check out the building regulations (Technical Guidance Document B Fire Safety) at: http://www.environ.ie/en/Publications/DevelopmentandHousing/BuildingStandards/FileDownLoad,1640,en.pdf

Carbon Monoxide is highly dangerous. You can’t see it or smell it. In fact it is often called “the silent killer”. You can protect your home from the dangers of this deadly gas by taking preventive measures and by learning to recognise the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. 

CFSG is one stop shop that supplies all your Fire Safety needs, email us info@cfsg.ie or call us 01 295 7540. CSFG operates a nationwide service backed up by a 24 hour call monitoring facility.

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:

1. headaches
2. dizziness
3. nausea
4. breathlessness
5. collapse
6. 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.