Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Carbon Monoxide has no warning properties; it is a colorless and odorless gas!
Cleanup workers may be exposed if a generator is operating in a partially enclosed area (e.g., under a dock or near a containment tent). Carbon Monoxide may be present with:
- Any activity using gasoline, diesel or propane-powered machinery
- Work near operating equipment
- Debris reduction sites
- Work near hot work (cutting, welding) especially in confined spaces
Overexposure Symptoms
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause serious health effects before a worker realizes there is a problem. Symptoms of overexposure may begin mildly and worsen quickly if exposure continues.
- Early symptoms may include headache, dizziness, fatigue, or drowsiness.
- As exposure increases, symptoms can progress to nausea, vomiting, confusion, and blurred vision.
- Severe exposure can lead to loss of consciousness, collapse, or seizures.
- Prolonged or very high exposure levels may result in coma, permanent brain damage, or death.
Because carbon monoxide cannot be seen or smelled, workers may not realize they are being exposed until symptoms appear. If you experience any of these symptoms in an area where carbon monoxide may be present, leave the area immediately and move to fresh air.
Controlling Exposure
There are several things you can do to control exposure to carbon monoxide. Here are a few:
- wear CO monitoring equipment
- do not use gas/diesel powered equipment indoors or in enclosed areas
- use forced air ventilation
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
4-4. Why is prolonged or high exposure carbon monoxide extremely dangerous to oil spill cleanup workers?
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