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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.
Many cases of reported Carbon Monoxide poisoning indicate that while victims are aware they are not
well, they become so disorientated they are unable to save themselves by either leaving the building or
calling for assistance. Young children and household pets may be the first affected.
Table A: Effects of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
35 The maximum allowable concentration for continuous exposure in any 8 hour period according to OSHA *.
150 Slight headache after 1.5 hours.
200 Slight headache, fatigue, dizziness, nausea after 2-3 hours.
400 Frontal headaches within 1-2 hours, life threatening after 3 hours, also maximum parts per million in flue gas (on an
air free basis) according to US Environmental Protection Agency.
800 Dizziness, nausea and convulsions within 45 minutes. Unconsciousness within 2 hours. Death within 2-3 hours.
1,600 Headache, dizziness and nausea within 20 minutes. Death within 1 hour.
3,200 Headache, dizziness and nausea within 5-10 minutes. Death within 25-30 minutes.
6,400 Headache, dizziness and nausea within 1-2 minutes. Death within 10-15 minutes.
12,800 Death within 1-3 minutes.
ppm
Concentration
of CO in Air
Inhalation Time (approx) and Symptoms Developed
ppm = parts per million
*OSHA Occupational Safety & Health Association
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