How Businesses Can Safeguard Against Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

• Follow applicable manufacturer instructions and building codes to ensure proper installation of equipment, appliances, or other machines that may produce CO.
• Schedule regular professional inspections of heating systems, chimneys, flues, and other equipment that could produce CO. Air in spaces where the gas maybe should also be consistently tested for the presence of CO.
• Educate employees on CO risks, symptoms, and emergency procedures and train them to report suspicious odors or symptoms. They should also be trained to avoid overexertion if they suspect CO poisoning and to leave contaminated areas.
• Ensure proper ventilation in enclosed spaces where fuel-burning equipment runs.
• Install CO detectors in areas near potential CO sources (e.g., boiler rooms, garages, kitchens) and regularly test and replace their batteries. If an employee is at a heightened risk of CO exposure, provide them with a personal CO monitor.
• Prohibit the use of gas-powered equipment indoors or in poorly ventilated areas. When outdoors, CO-producing equipment should not be run near open doors, windows or air intakes to help prevent CO infiltration.
• Provide personal protective equipment to employees who work in areas with potentially high CO concentrations and train them on how to properly use it.
• Develop and communicate an emergency plan for CO incidents. Such a plan should include procedures for evacuation and providing medical assistance.
• Consider alternative power supplies (e.g., batteries or electricity) instead of gas-powered tools or equipment.

Being aware of the risks CO presents and taking proactive steps to eliminate or mitigate those hazards can help employers ensure safe working conditions for their employees.