Carbon monoxide (CO) is often referred to as the Silent Killer. We are all aware of its dangers from a car left running in a closed garage or from faulty space heaters. Have you ever stopped to think if your work environment is safe from the dangers of carbon monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas that is invisible to the human senses. It is a by-product of combustion that will appear naturally in any situation where burning of a carbon based product has occurred. Propane-powered forklifts, industrial gas heaters and infrared drying ovens on presses all generate CO. Carbon monoxide is termed a toxic asphyxiant. It complexes with the hemoglobin in the blood, preventing oxygen transfer. In high concentrations or over extended periods of  time, the effect of CO can be fatal. Not only is CO toxic, it is also flammable and can cause an explosion if the concentration exceeds 12.5%. The OSHA Permissible Exposure Level for CO consists of two parts, a "ceiling" of 200 ppm and a Time Weighted Average "TWA" of 35 ppm. Here are some effects of various CO levels.

50 ppm Permissible Exposure Level for 8-hours (OSHA)

200 ppm Possible mild frontal headache in 2 to 3 hours

400 ppm Frontal headache and nausea after 1 to 2 hours.

Occipital headache after 21/2 to 31/2 hours.

800 ppm Headache, dizziness and nausea in 45 minutes.

Collapse and possible death in 2 hours.

1600 ppm Headache, dizziness and nausea in 20 minutes.

Collapse and death in one hour.

Source: American Industrial Hygiene Association

The Extech Carbon Monoxide meter can identify the danger zones in your shop. Regular testing in potential danger areas is recommended. The portability allows for testing multiple areas. Easy one-key operation detects CO levels up to 10,000 ppm. The features on this meter can save your life:

IMPORTANT – If a person has been exposed to lower levels of CO, moving them to fresh air will usually prevent any permanent damage. If the victim has stopped breathing, move him to fresh air and immediately start CPR. Dial 9-1-1. A physician should examine all persons who have had CO exposure above the OSHA limits.