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Washington – OSHA reminds employers to take precautions to protect workers from the potentially fatal effects of carbon monoxide exposure when using portable generators and other equipment in confined spaces .
Carbon monoxide – a colorless, odorless and poisonous gas – is produced by equipment that uses combustion to function. This equipment includes heaters, compressors, power tools, pumps, furnaces, gas forklifts, welding equipment and motor vehicles. Symptoms of overexposure are: headache, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting and chest tightness. Severe overexposure to carbon monoxide can cause neurological damage, coma and death.
The risk of carbon monoxide poisoning increases during the winter months, when equipment and fuel tools are used in buildings or spaces without sufficient ventilation.
OSHA resources include a pair of fact sheets, Using Safe Portable Generators and Carbon Monoxide Poisoning, which address specific hazards badociated with the use of equipment and provide information. on the safety of workers during their use.
The agency advises workers never to use generators indoors or in spaces such as garages, crawl spaces or basements, even if the doors and windows are open. Other tips:
- Make sure the generators have a clearance of 3 to 4 feet from all sides and above to ensure adequate ventilation.
- Do not place a generator near doors, windows or vents that could allow carbon monoxide to enter a building or enclosed space.
- If a worker exhibits symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, have him breathe in fresh air and see a doctor immediately. Do not enter the area until qualified and properly equipped personnel have found it safe.
According to a 2013 NIOSH study, between 1992 and 2008, 22 workers were killed each year by work-related carbon monoxide exposure.
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