Suggestions to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Employers
1.) Install an effective ventilation system to remove poisonous carbon monoxide from the area.
2.) Maintain appliances and equipment in good order, adjusting flames, burners, and drafts to reduce
the formation of carbon monoxide.
3.) Consider switching from fossil fuel-powered equipment to battery-powered machinery when
possible.
4.) Provide approved respirators for emergency use. Regular respirators (negative pressure) will not
work in this atmosphere. If necessary, provide an independent air supply to workers.
5.) Install carbon monoxide monitors or regularly test air in areas when carbon monoxide is
generated or used.
6.) Provide pre-placement and periodic medical examinations for workers who may be exposed to
carbon monoxide. If possible, transfer affected workers to other jobs.
7.) Instruct workers in the hazards of carbon monoxide and train them in the proper use of
respirators.
Workers
1.) Report to your employer any condition that might make carbon monoxide form or accumulate.
2.) Be alert to ventilation problems, especially in enclosed areas where gases of burning fuels may
be released.
3.) Report complaints early. Do not overexert yourself if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning.
Physical activity increases the body’s need for oxygen and thus increases the danger of
poisoning.
4.) In you get sick, do not forget to tell you doctor about the possibility of exposure to carbon
monoxide.
5.) Think carefully about your smoking habits. Tobacco, when burned, releases carbon monoxide,
which reduces the oxygen-carrying ability of the blood, even before any industrial exposure is
added.
What Are The Federal Standards?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standard for exposure to carbon monoxide
prohibits workers’ exposure to more than 35 parts of the gas per million parts of air (ppm), averaged over
an 8-hour workday. There is also a ceiling limit of 200 ppm (as measured over a 15-minute period.)
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This is one of a series of fact sheets highlighting U.S. Department of Labor programs. It is intended as
a general description only and does not carry the force of legal opinion.
