Carbon monoxide (CO) is something we know is dangerous but we’re not all aware of what we’re looking for when it comes to handling the situation.
Known as the ‘silent killer’, CO is colourless, tasteless and has no smell. This is why it’s often difficult to determine its presence.
Carbon monoxide gas is produced when fuels such as gas, oil, wood and coal do not burn properly and excess CO is produced.
The Symptoms
Symptoms can vary from person to person and as it kills quickly, it’s often hard to determine exactly what the person suffers in severe cases. However, in general the symptoms can be confused with food poisoning, flu or a viral infection. Things to look out for include tiredness, nausea, breathlessness and blurred vision.
In large businesses, just like domestic homes, it’s important we raise the awareness of carbon monoxide and how you can help to stay safe.
What To Look For
With boilers, keep your eyes peeled for pilot lights that go out too frequently, as this can indicate incomplete combustion. In addition, yellow or brown staining around or on the appliance and a yellow or orange flame can also be warning signs.
How You Can Reduce The Risk
The good news is that over the last couple of years statistics show that carbon monoxide deaths have declined, however results and analysis of gas related deaths are often sketchy on the details as there is no automatic testing for carbon monoxide poisoning on death. The fact is, we just don’t know the full extent of carbon monoxide poisoning in the UK.
To reduce the risk of this harmful gas occurring, it is important to regularly service your appliances and sweep chimneys and flues, if you use solid fuel. It is also important to keep rooms well ventilated and avoid blocking air vents.
Robinsons Facilities Services offers planned and preventative maintenance for all commercial businesses. We make thorough checks to ensure you stay safe from potential carbon monoxide leaks.
For more information please contact us.