Eagle Eye Contents — Spring 2003

• Avoid using gas or propane-powered engines while working in enclosed spaces.
• Maintain equipment and appliances that can produce CO in good working condition.
• Be alert to ventilation problems, especially in enclosed areas.
• Understand the symptoms of CO poisoning — headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, chest pain and confusion. Symptoms may vary from person to person and often mimic other illnesses.
• Provide personal CO monitors if potential CO exposure exists.
• Test the workplace environment regularly where CO may be present, especially in confined spaces. OSHA PEL is 50 parts per million as an 8 hour time-weighted average. The ACGIH TLV is 25 parts per million as an eight hour timeweighted average.
• Consider switching from fuel-powered equipment to other sources such as electricity, batteries or compressed air if they can be used safely.

Educate workers about the sources and conditions that may result in CO poisoning and explain the symptoms. For more information, visit the following websites:

United States Environmental Protection Agency

Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Consumer Product Safety Commision

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention