|
Gas
Pipeline Safety Article
Domestic Gas Health and Safety
Every year about 30 people die from
carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning caused by gas appliances and flues
which have not been properly installed or maintained.
Many others also suffer ill health. When gas does not burn properly,
as with other fuels such as coal, wood or oil, excess CO is produced
which is poisonous.
You can't see it, taste it
or smell it but CO can kill without warning in just a matter
of hours.
Symptoms of CO can include tiredness, drowsiness, headaches,
giddiness, nausea, vomiting, pains in the chest,
breathlessness, stomach pains, erratic behaviour and visual
problems. These symptoms can mimic many common ailments and
may easily be confused as flu, or simple tiredness.
If you or your family
experience the above symptoms and you believe CO may be
involved you must seek urgent medical advice. Your doctor
will need to test you for a blood or breath sample. Be
aware, CO quickly leaves the blood and tests may be
inaccurate if taken more than four hours after exposure has
ceased.
This website contains
information gas consumers need to know in order to manage
gas appliances/equipment safely and tells you what to do in
an emergency. It also provides advice for landlords, and
letting agents on how to comply with the law. |
