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High levels of CO in a house can be caused by:
• Incorrectly or poorly installed fuel-burning appliances.
• Blocked or cracked chimneys/flues.
• Blocked vents or draught-proofing which makes areas with fuel burning appliances
or fireplaces airtight.
• Engines of cars, lawnmowers etc. left running in confined spaces.
• Portable paraffin or gas heaters in badly ventilated rooms.
3.2 Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Most people know that high levels of CO are harmful, however the period of exposure
is also important.
The following symptoms are related to Carbon Monoxide poisoning and should be
discussed with all members of the household.
Mild Exposure
: Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue (often described as
“flu-like” symptoms).
Medium Exposure
: Severe throbbing headache, drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.
Extreme Exposure
: Unconsciousness, convulsions, cardiorespiratory failure, death.
A high level of CO for a short period (e.g. 350 ppm CO for 30 minutes) will cause the same
symptoms, a slight headache, as a lower level for a longer time (e.g. 150 ppm for 90 minutes).
Table A shows how exposure to different concentrations of CO generally affects people.
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