Carbon Monoxide (CO)

CO is produced by the incomplete combustion of carbon fuels like natural gas or LPG, especially when gas appliances are incorrectly fitted, poorly maintained, or if flues and vents are blocked. CO is invisible, tasteless, and odourless, making it extremely dangerous as it can't be detected without special equipment. 

Symptoms of CO poisoning resemble flu or food poisoning, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, breathlessness, collapse, and loss of consciousness. Additional signs include symptoms that appear at home and disappear elsewhere and similar symptoms among household members, including pets. 

When checking gas appliances, it's important to look for warning signs that they may not be working properly: Flame Colour: The flame on gas appliances should be a crisp blue. A lazy yellow or orange flame suggests incomplete combustion. Black Marks or Stains: Can indicate that combustion is not occurring properly. Excessive Condensation: If there's too much condensation in the room, especially around windows, this could be a sign of poor ventilation and potential carbon monoxide buildup.

 If CO poisoning is suspected, it's crucial to get fresh air immediately, open doors and windows, turn off gas appliances, and seek medical attention. CO displaces oxygen in the bloodstream, leading to tissue damage and, in severe cases, death. 

To prevent CO poisoning, it's important to have gas appliances checked annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer and install audible CO alarms as a secondary line of defence. Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed as per manufacturer guidelines and tested regularly, ensuring they meet relevant safety standards. For more information, you can visit https://www.gassaferegister.co.uk/gas-safety/