Carbon Monoxide Impact

Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless and tasteless, but highly toxic. It combines with hemoglobin to produce carboxyhemoglobin, which is ineffective for delivering oxygen to bodily tissues. This condition is known as anoxemia.

Concentrations as low as 667 ppm may cause up to 50% of the body's hemoglobin to convert to carboxyhemoglobin. A level of 50% carboxyhemoglobin may result in seizure, coma, and fatality. In the United States, the OSHA limits long-term workplace exposure levels above 50 ppm.

The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may resemble other types of poisonings and infections, including symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue and a feeling of weakness. Infants may be irritable and feed poorly. Neurological signs include confusion, disorientation, visual disturbance, syncope and seizures.

Some descriptions of carbon monoxide poisoning include retinal hemorrhages, and an abnormal cherry-red blood hue. In most clinical diagnoses these signs are seldom seen.

Carbon monoxide binds to other molecules such as myoglobin and mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase. Exposures to carbon monoxide may cause significant damage to the heart and central nervous system, especially to the globus pallidus, often with long-term sequelae. Carbon monoxide may have severe adverse effects on the fetus of a pregnant woman.

The danger signs

Carbon monoxide may be present if there are any of the following danger signs:

· Gas flames that normally burn blue burn orange or yellow instead.

· Sooty stains appear on or just above appliances, regardless of the fuel being burnt.

· Coal or wood fires burn slowly or go out.

· The fire is difficult to light.

· The room is not properly ventilated.

· The chimney or flue is blocked - watch out for smoke in the room.

Key Safety Messages & Facts

1. Carbon monoxide can result from burning all fossil fuels - not just gas fires and boilers.

2. It is important to ensure rooms are ventilated - never block vents. If double glazing or draught-proofing is fitted, make sure there is still enough air circulating for any heaters in the room.

3. Boilers and heating systems and appliances should be installed, maintained and regularly serviced by a competent engineer.

4. If you have recently moved, check when your boiler or heating appliances were last serviced.

5. Gas flames burning orange or yellow instead of blue may indicate the presence of carbon monoxide.

6. Never cook on a barbecue indoors - the charcoal gives off carbon monoxide.

7. If you develop any of the following unexplained symptoms - drowsiness, headaches, chest pains, giddiness, sickness, diarrhoea, stomach pains - you could be suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning. Switch off your appliances and see your doctor at once.