A summary of the risks of Co in the house
A summary of the risks of Co in the house
Carbon Monoxide Gas is one of the most poisonous gases and it is indiscernible with no smell or taste. Bad air to a boiler can lead to the production of this gas. The lack of oxygen means that Carbon Monoxide Gas is produced rather than the less severe Co2. Following the adoption of regular central heating appliance servicing and ordinances governing air levels fatalities from Co have been held at 30 per annum although there are many more injuries from poisoning.
Can I view my boilers to see if Carbon Monoxide Gas could be a problem?
Carbon Monoxide Gas production is often a result of incomplete burning and this can be seen as the deposit of carbon black coloring surfaces near your gas appliances. Another way to check for gas burning problems is to inspect pilot lights and see whether they are burning with a yellowed or other colour flame rather than the blue light of a well maintained system. If the flame changes from blue to yellowed or orange this could mean that Carbon Monoxide is present and you should have the appliance inspected by a professional person.
What should I do to protect myself and my family from Carbon Monoxide poisoning ?
The underlying cause of Co production is lack of ventilation to a gas flame. Gas appliance engineers will check the ventilation and combustion efficiency of your gas appliances during the regular maintenance visits eliminating the causes of poor burning. A CORGI-registered plumber should be employed to service your gas appliances. As a second, very important, line of defence, fit a British Standard approved Carbon Monoxide Gas detector with an audible alarm. Provision of the recommended ventilation to gas appliances is essential and you should regularly scrutinize any ventilation vents to see to it that the flow of air can be maintained. Moving outside your property take a look at all air ducts and air bricks to see to it that they have not been covered by plant growth. If ventilation is provided through a flue this should be inspected throughout the year to confirm that it has not become blocked by debris or even a nest created by birds. Know the difference between the sound of smoke alarms and Carbon Monoxide Gas alarms. If the Carbon Monoxide Gas detector alarm goes off make sure it is your Carbon Monoxide detector and not your smoke detector.
What are the risks with Carbon Monoxide Gas poisoning?
If you suspect there is Co in your home you should err on the side of caution. Do not read this or other articles and form your own assessment. Quick action can save your and your family’s lives. Any member of the household can be affected by Carbon Monoxide regardless of their age. Favourite animals, large and small, are also potential victims.
What should I look for as early signs of poisoning from Carbon Monoxide Gas?
Co absorption can result in the following signs: -
- ongoing headaches
- balance problems
- weariness
- billiousness
A CORGI certified service engineer should be brought in to scrutinise your gas appliances if you notice these signs in your home. Whilst waiting for the plumber to come you should see to it that you have opened the windows and everyone has left the household.