1

Mansel Nelson,ITEP–EEOP

2

3

SafetyPerform regular maintenanceAvoid installing unvented (or "vent-free”) heating

appliancesConsider using only sealed-combustion, induced draft, or

power-vented furnaces, boilers, and water heatersFor gas range, use properly sized range hood fanAfter installation of combustion and/or ventilation

equipment, test for proper functioningVent clothes dryers to outsideInstall a carbon monoxide alarm (state law)

4

Silent Killer: Carbon Monoxide (CO)

5

Combustion-Appliance Backdrafting

DepressurizationExhaust ventsWind

Pulls air back down chimney or flue

www.epa.gov/iaq/homes/hip-backdrafting.html

6

CO Levels (General Guidelines)

0-9 ppm No significant health risk 35-50 ppm Exposure – chronic: headaches, nausea,

tired

Most Detectors Start Alarming 50-70 ppm Exposure - 2-3 hours: flu-like symptoms,

headache, nausea

70-200 ppm Exposure - 1 hour: dizziness, fatigue, vomiting

200-800 ppm Exposure – Minutes: unconsciousness, brain damage, DEATH

7

How CO attacks… Red blood cells

prefer CO to oxygen If enough CO in air,

CO replaces oxygen in blood

Blocks oxygen from getting into body, damaging tissues and potentially causing death

8

Common Sources of CO Blocked flue, chimney, vent pipes Rusted/cracked furnace heat exchanger Idling engine in attached garage Back-drafting, spillage Mal-adjusted fuel-fired space heater Unvented use of BBQ/charcoal indoors Gas stoves and ranges, water heaters Outdoor combustion exhaust near

door/vent/window

9

Particulate Matter (PM)Eye, nose, throat, lung irritation

Bronchitis, allergies, asthma, respiratory and ear infections, cardiovascular conditions…

Sooting from appliancesGhosting on walls/ceilingWhat is adhered-to particle?

10

Summary – Burning Practices

Best-burn practices are inexpensive and sustainable strategies

Education, outreach, and training are critical