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906 Oil Spill Cleanup
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Carbon Monoxide (CO) Exposure

Carbon Monoxide has no warning properties; it is a colorless and odorless gas!

Exhaust pipe of car spewing dangerous carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide poisoning is extremely dangerous.

Carbon Monoxide may be present with:

  • any activity using gasoline, diesel or propane-powered machinery
  • work near operating equipment
  • debris reduction sites
  • work near hot work (cutting, welding) especially in confined spaces

Controlling Exposure

There are several things you can do to control exposure to carbon monoxide. Here are a few:

  • wear CO monitoring equipment
  • do not use gas/diesel powered equipment indoors or in enclosed areas
  • use forced air ventilation

Overexposure Symptoms

Symptoms include: Headache, dizziness, drowsiness, or nausea progressing to vomiting, loss of consciousness. Prolonged or high exposure can lead to coma or death. If you experience any of these symptoms where CO may be present, leave the area immediately

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

4-4. Why is prolonged or high exposure carbon monoxide extremely dangerous to oil spill cleanup workers?