Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
20/04/2007
Below is an extract from the Health & Safety review on Gas safety carried out during 2006 which highlights the importance of ensuring ALL gas appliance are safe & have been serviced correctly
Approximately 20 people die each year from CO poisoning associated with gas appliances, a figure that could be reduced if people understood the risks and took sensible precautions.
You cannot see, smell or taste CO fumes leaving anyone exposed feeling unwell. In the worst situations, CO can kill without warning in just hours.
In addition to getting appliances checked, it is also important to ensure they are used correctly. When used, appliances must have access to a good supply of fresh air:
CO is produced when there isn’t enough air for complete burning of the fuel.
Never use a gas appliance if you think it’s not working properly. Signs to look out for on boilers, fires and cookers include:
- yellow or orange flames
- soot or stains around the appliance; and
- a pilot light that frequently blows out.
Please don’t think CO poisoning leaves you either dead or doesn’t affect you.
‘Many people will put up with low level poisoning & headaches – this may well lead to brain damage, memory loss & personality change’ (Professor John Henry – Clinical Toxicologist)
Play Safe – Get your appliance serviced
Appliances installed by East Midlands Housing in rented properties are our responsibility to service and repair - Contact us via our email form, or telephone us on your local office number, if you are unsure or know that your appliance has not been checked & we will arrange an appointment if required with our Gas Service Engineers.
Dene Carvell - Regional Maintenance Manager - Responsible Person
Kelly Hammonds - Gas Co-Ordinator
Gas Service Engineers
Wheldons - South Region
Tomlinsons - North Region