Share:

If you own a business, you have the responsibility to maintain a safe environment for your employees and customers. For this reason, be mindful of the risks posed by carbon monoxide (CO). Taking adequate precautions could save lives.

A Business Owner’s Guide to Carbon Monoxide

What are the OSHA’s CO safety requirements?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates that employers ensure their staff isn’t exposed to levels above 50 CO parts per million (ppm).

To do this, employers should install carbon monoxide detectors in areas where CO exposure is a concern. These alarms ring if CO content in the air reaches unsafe levels.

Where is there a risk of exposure?

Carbon monoxide is produced by vehicles and equipment that use internal combustion engines.

carbon monoxideWelders, diesel engine operators, and individuals who work in boiler rooms, refineries, or steel production facilities are at the highest risk of exposure. Working in a confined space without adequate ventilation poses a risk of CO poisoning.

What are the signs of exposure?

When someone inhales carbon monoxide, the gas keeps the blood from absorbing oxygen. This results in oxygen shortages to the heart, brain, and other organs.

Early signs of CO poisoning include chest tightness, headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. As exposure continues, individuals could vomit or lose consciousness. While symptoms can be reversed if caught quickly, acute poisoning can cause lasting brain or heart damage. It can even lead to death.

How else can you protect your employees?

Employers must equip their facilities with adequate ventilation. Workers should avoid using gas-powered equipment in enclosed spaces, and wear respirators and face masks in high-risk environments.

Properly maintaining any gas-powered machinery reduces the risk of CO leaks. Consider using electric or battery-powered equipment when possible.

 

If you need CO alarms for your commercial facility, trust Action Security & Communications in Rochester, NY. For over 30 years, they have supplied businesses with cutting-edge safety tech. Their commercial fire alarm systems detect carbon monoxide, smoke, and excessive heat, alerting authorities as necessary. Visit them online to learn more about their detectors, or call (800) 445-1410 to discuss your needs.

tracking