Issue link: http://palletcentral.uberflip.com/i/1040159
palletcentral.com PalletCentral • September-October 2018 19 it displaces oxygen in the blood, and deprives the heart, brain and other vital organs of oxygen. CO is known as the "silent killer" because: (1) the gas is odorless, tasteless and colorless, making perception of the gas difficult in the workplace; and (2) workers' symptoms often are not associated with CO poisoning because they can mimic symptoms of flu or other illnesses at levels even four times above the PEL. Sometimes CO will be mixed with other cases so that it does have an odor, making detection quicker and interventions to protect workers more effective. In addition to the flu-like symptoms and tightness in the chest, CO poisoning can also trigger chest pain in persons with angina. Older workers may be more susceptible to CO poisoning, as are individuals with lung or heart disease, workers at high altitudes, and those with preexisting CO levels (smokers). Pregnant workers' fetuses can also be adversely affected. While CO poisoning can be reversed if identified and treated in a timely manner, it can still result in permanent damage to the heart and brain, as well as posing reproductive risks. Short-term exposure at 200 ppm, as an example, typically will not cause serious illness, but continued exposure can result in long-term adverse health effects or death. However, once exposure I t is not widely known that small gasoline-powered engines and tools present a serious health hazard. Many people using gasoline-powered tools such as high-pressure washers, concrete cutting saws (walk-behind/hand-held), power trowels, floor buffers, welders, pumps, compressors, and generators in buildings or semi enclosed spaces have been poisoned by carbon monoxide (CO). The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) makes several recommendations to employers for preventing CO poisoning that include the following (access a full list from www.cdc.gov/niosh): • NOT allow the use of or operate gasoline-powered engines or tools inside buildings or in partially enclosed areas unless gasoline engines can be located outside away from air intakes. Use of gasoline-powered tools indoors where CO from the engine can accumulate can be fatal. • Learn to recognize the symptoms and signs of CO overexposure: headache, nausea, weakness, dizziness, visual disturbances, changes in personality, and loss of consciousness. Any of these symptoms and signs can occur within minutes of usage. • Consider the use of tools powered by electricity or compressed air if they are available and can be used safely. • If compressed air is used, place the gasoline-powered compressor outdoors and away from air intakes so that engine exhaust is not drawn indoors where the work is being done. • Use personal CO monitors where potential sources of CO exist. These monitors should be equipped with audible alarms to warn workers when CO concentrations are too high or when exceeding the NIOSH Ceiling limit for CO of 200 parts per million. Employers Should Also: • Conduct a workplace survey to identify all potential sources of CO exposure. • Educate workers about the sources and conditions that may result in CO poisoning as well as the symptoms and control of CO exposure. • Always substitute with less hazardous equipment if possible. Use equipment that allows for the placement of gasoline- powered engines outdoors at a safe distance from air entering the building. • Monitor employee CO exposure to determine the extent of the hazard. Source: The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Retrieved from www.cdc.gov/niosh. NIOSH Safety Tips