Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, poisonous gas, that is produced by incomplete burning of carbon-based fuels, including fuel gas. When CO gets into the body, it prevents the blood from bringing oxygen to cells, tissues, and organs.

Every year aproximately 20 people die from CO poisoning caused by gas appliances and flues that have not been properly installed or maintained. Many others also suffer ill health. This risk could be dramatically reduced by increasing consumer understanding of the risks and taking sensible precautions.

Although usually associated with faulty gas appliances, CO can be a particular problem for workers in the motor vehicle maintenance indusrty. Businesses with premises such as garages and boat repair shops can and do suffer with CO. Petrol or gas (LPG) fuelled engine fumes contain up to 10% carbon monoxide.

So what can I do about CO? PHS can screen you employees for CO on a periodic basis. This screening would detect any increased lavels of CO before they became a serious problem. This way your staff remain healthy and no man hours are lost through CO related illness.