Carbon Monoxide is known as the silent killer. In this article we discuss how to use a detector to minimise the risk of serious illness or even death from this poison that can be emitted by faulty gas boilers
Over 50 people die every year in the UK,
and more than 1,100 are admitted to hospital, as a result of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Many of these incidents could have been prevented if the properties in which they took place had been fitted with an operational carbon monoxide detector. However, it is estimated that only 16% of UK homes have a CO alarm fitted. In a bid to prevent future deaths and hospital admissions, the Scottish and Northern Irish governments have introduced legislation that makes CO detectors compulsory in certain circumstances. Industry bodies have urged politicians to expand the legislation to cover England and Wales to help prevent future fatalities.
Scotland:
From 1 October 2013, all new properties built in Scotland must have a carbon monoxide detector fitted. Detectors must also be installed at the same time as new boilers or gas-powered appliances. One of the most common causes of CO poisoning is the faulty operation of appliances powered by gas or other fossil fuels. It is hoped that these regulations will help to prevent future CO poisonings resulting from faulty appliances.
However, many in the industry are questioning whether these regulations go far enough. Intrinsically, new appliances tend to be safer than older, less efficient appliances. In some quarters, campaigners are pushing politicians to encourage homeowners and landlords to fit CO alarms in every Scottish property.
The change to the Scottish building regulations has been applauded by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents in Scotland (RoSPA Scotland). However, RoSPA Scotland urges everyone with gas appliances to have them serviced every year by a qualified gas engineer who is listed on the Gas Safe Register. This advice recognises that there are still a great many properties in which older equipment is in use, which may be more likely to work incorrectly and produce CO.
Northern Ireland:
Northern Ireland was the first country within the UK to pass legislation that made the fitting of carbon monoxide detectors compulsory. From 31 October 2012, Northern Irish building regulations made it compulsory for a CO alarm to be fitted in any dwelling where a new or replacement combustion appliance is to be fitted. These regulations cover the installation of boilers and solid fuel stoves.
England and Wales:
Building regulations in England and Wales only require carbon monoxide detectors to be fitted in homes which have a new or replacement fixed, solid-fuel appliance installed. Campaigners say that these regulations do not go far enough to protect individuals from faulty appliances or blocked ventilation.
What is Carbon Monoxide (CO)?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, tasteless gas that is produced when fossil fuels do not burn correctly. This can be caused by faulty appliances or blocked vents or flues. There is no way to detect high levels of CO in the atmosphere. It cannot be seen, tasted or smelt. The symptoms of CO poisoning can be difficult to recognise because they are so similar to other illnesses, such as colds or flu. Individuals exposed to CO may experience a mild headache, shortness of breath and nausea. As CO levels rise, they can cause confusion, dizziness, severe headaches and fainting. These symptoms can be followed by unconsciousness, brain damage or death.
In addition to the physical symptoms that can be caused by CO poisoning, individuals may notice problems with their appliances that can indicate that they are producing CO. Sooty stains may develop around the appliance as a result of the fuel burning incompletely. Flames in a pilot light or gas fire may burn orange instead of blue is the gas is not burning correctly.
Having appliances serviced annually can reduce the likelihood of CO gas being produced. However, even well-maintained appliances can develop faults or vents can become blocked. It is at times like those that a CO alarm can be a life-saver. CO alarms emit an audible signal when levels of CO in the surrounding environment are too high.
CO detectors should be fitted in a location that allows the air to circulate around them. They should not be fitted in small cupboards or be obstructed by curtains or furniture. They should not be placed too close to sinks or cooking appliances as these can interfere with their operation.
Sources:
http://www.rospa.com/news/releases/detail/?id=1248
http://www.gisahugfoundation.co.uk/
