October 17, 2003—The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has added a new safety and health topic page to its Web site concerning Carbon Monoxide Hazards from Small Gasoline Powered Engines. The site provides recommendations to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, links to several case studies of CO poisoning, and links to other publications.
According to NIOSH, many people using gasoline-powered tools such as generators, high-pressure washers, concrete cutting saws (walk-behind/hand-held), power trowels, floor buffers, welders, pumps, and compressors in buildings or semi-enclosed spaces have been poisoned by carbon monoxide (CO). CO can rapidly accumulate (even in areas that appear to be well ventilated) and build up to dangerous or fatal concentrations within minutes. For examples of CO poisonings in various occupations, visit the Web site.
