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Special Emphasis Program


Carbon Monoxide


The Hidden Killer


Tennessee OSHA has instituted a Special Emphasis Program for Carbon Monoxide (CO). This is established to focus state-wide attention on carbon monoxide and to reduce employee exposure to, and eliminate deaths from, carbon monoxide. During all health and safety inspections the TOSHA compliance officer or consultant will make the employer aware of the Carbon Monoxide Special Emphasis Program and will measure the level of employee exposure to carbon monoxide. Interventions will be made when necessary.

What Can CO Do to You?

Carbon monoxide (a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas) is one of the most common industrial hazards. Mild exposure can cause such symptoms as nausea, dizziness or headaches while severe poisoning can result in brain or heart damage or even death. The poisonous gas is produced by the incomplete burning of any material containing carbon, such as gasoline, natural gas, oil, kerosene, propane, charcoal, or wood. One of the most common sources of exposure in the workplace is the internal combustion engine (such as small gasoline-powered engines and tools, gasoline or propane-powered forklifts). Forges, blast furnaces and coke ovens also produce carbon monoxide.

  • TOSHA Laws on Carbon Monoxide Exposure Require
    That Employers: Ensure that exposures are kept below the limits in Table Z-1-A (general industry).

        • 35 ppm for an 8-hour time-weighted average
        • 200 ppm for a short-term limit (five minutes)
        • 1500 ppm for an instantaneous limit
  • Ensure that exposures are kept below 50 ppm for an 8-hour time-weighted average in construction.

Also, if there is a potential for exposure to carbon monoxide:

  • Include carbon monoxide in the Hazard Communication Program inventory list of hazardous chemicals.
  • Obtain a material safety data sheet for carbon monoxide and include information on carbon monoxide in the Hazard Communication Program.
  • Post a carbon monoxide warning sign in each area where there is a potential for carbon monoxide exposure and include it in annual Right-to-Know training.

Suggestions for Employers

  • Install an effective ventilation system to remove carbon monoxide.
  • Maintain appliances and equipment in good order (do preventative maintenance).
  • Consider switching from fossil fuel-powered to battery-powered equipment.
  • Ensure that air from compressors used to supply breathing air is Grade D.
  • Install carbon monoxide monitors or regularly test the air in areas where carbon monoxide is generated.
  • Instruct workers in the hazards, signs, and symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure.

For more information and publications on carbon monoxide contact your local Tennessee OSHA office or visit www.osha.gov.

Carbon Monoxide Warning Sign

WARNING

CARBON MONOXIDE

A colorless, odorless, toxic gas is produced from incomplete combustion of gas, oil, kerosene, and wood.

May cause dizziness, nausea, or headache

Excessive exposure may cause unconsciousness
and death

May aggravate heart and artery diseases


TOSHA
220 French Landing Drive
Nashville, Tennessee 37243
Ph: (615) 741-2793
Fax: (615) 253-1623
Toll Free: 1-800-249-8510

 

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