Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention
Occupational Health › General › Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas that kills without warning. On construction sites, CO is produced by petrol and diesel engines, generators, compressors, and any combustion equipment used in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces. Workers have died from CO poisoning in basements, partially enclosed buildings, and near running plant. This talk explains the sources, symptoms, and prevention measures for CO exposure.
- Never operate petrol or diesel-powered engines, generators, or compressors inside enclosed spaces.
- Ensure adequate ventilation when any combustion equipment is used near partially enclosed areas.
- Fit personal CO alarm monitors to every worker entering areas where CO accumulation is possible.
- Evacuate immediately if a CO alarm activates and move upwind into fresh air.
- Position exhaust outlets of generators and compressors to discharge away from building openings.
- Use battery-powered or mains electric tools instead of petrol-powered equipment in enclosed spaces.
- Recognise the early symptoms of CO exposure: headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion.
- Ensure CO detectors are calibrated, tested, and within their service date before each shift.
- Brief all operatives on CO sources, symptoms, and the emergency evacuation procedure.
If CO poisoning is suspected, move the casualty to fresh air immediately. Call 999 and inform them of suspected CO exposure. Begin CPR if the person is unresponsive and not breathing. Do not re-enter the affected area.
- Never operate petrol or diesel engines, generators, or compressors inside enclosed spaces
- Fit personal CO alarm monitors to every worker in areas where CO accumulation is possible
- Evacuate immediately if a CO alarm activates and move upwind into fresh open air
- Recognise the early symptoms of CO poisoning: headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion
- Use battery or mains electric tools instead of petrol equipment in enclosed or confined areas
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