Carbon Monoxide (also known as CO) is a colourless, odourless poisonous gas and is a common yet preventable cause of death from poisoning worldwide. On average between 1 and 2 people die each year in Ireland from unintentional CO poisoning in the home in incidents related to domestic heating or other fossil fuel installations in the home.
Carbon Monoxide has no smell, taste or colour. This is why it is sometimes called the “Silent Killer”
Carbon Monoxide alarms can be used as a backup to provide a warning to householders in the event of a dangerous build up of CO. Check that the Carbon Monoxide alarm complies with the EN 50291 standard. Remember that Carbon Monoxide alarms are no substitute for regular inspection and maintenance of appliances, vents, flues and chimneys.
Physiological Effects of Carbon Monoxide (CO) | ||
Parts per Million | Time of Exposure | Response |
50 | Threshold limit, no apparent toxic symptoms | |
100 | Several hours | No symptoms for long periods |
200 | 2-3 hours | Possible headache |
400 | 1-2 hours | Frontal headache and nausea |
800 | 45 minutes | Headache, dizziness and nausea |
800 | 2 hours | Collapse and possible unconsciousness |
1600 | 20 minutes | Headache, dizziness and nausea |
1600 | 2 hours | Collapse, unconsciousness, possible death |
3200 | 5-10 minutes | Headache and dizziness |
3200 | 10-15 minutes | Unconsciousness and possible death |
6400 | 1-2 minutes | Headache and dizziness |
6400 | 0-15 minutes | Unconsciousness and possible death |
12800 | Immediate | Unconsciousness |
12800 | 1-3 minutes | Danger of death |