Mitigating Carbon Monoxide Risks in the Workplace

According to Risk Management Magazine, carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning poses a significant threat in the United States, with over 100,000 ER visits and 400 fatalities annually attributed to accidental exposure. CO is an odorless gas that, at low levels, can cause fatigue and chest pain, and at higher concentrations, leads to nausea, confusion, and even death. Sources include unvented heaters, leaking chimneys, and faulty equipment. Recognizing signs such as soot streaks and excess moisture is crucial.

Prevention measures involve annual professional inspections of furnaces and appliances, installation of CO alarms, and proper ventilation when using stoves. Vehicles should not idle near building air inputs, and generators must be placed outdoors during power outages. Switching to electric-powered tools and maintaining clean fireplace flues are further safeguards.

In case of CO poisoning, these preventative steps also mitigate organizational negligence. Various insurance policies like comprehensive general liability can provide financial protection, but coverage specifics vary. Risk professionals should discuss with insurance agents to tailor policies to their organization’s needs, addressing coverage, limits, and exclusions.

Protection against CO poisoning should be integrated into routine organizational tasks, overseen by designated personnel. Regular monitoring ensures a proactive approach to this deadly threat.