CARBON MONOXIDE IN THE WORKPLACE
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365-BSA-01-IMOT © 2024, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | WSPS.CA
Many circumstances in the workplace can contribute to the build up of carbon monoxide. They include:
faulty venting of process equipment
improper maintenance
weather conditions
close proximity of the person to the source
ineffective or insufficient ventilation
lack of make-up air
In confined spaces, the hazard from these circumstances is even greater than for open spaces. For
this reason, people working in confined spaces must be even more aware of the hazards. Other factors
applicable to confined spaces include:
inappropriate or lack of ambient air testing
insufficient respiratory protective equipment
lack of confined space procedure development
ineffective training
insufficient emergency response procedures
How do I find out if there is a problem in my workplace?
prepare a floor plan for the workplace
identify all actual or potential sources of carbon monoxide:
– equipment
– processes
– bulk storage
– materials
– potential sources coming in from outside
conduct hazard analyses of jobs associated with carbon monoxide sources
determine worker exposure by conducting appropriate air exposure assessments and/or indoor air
quality monitoring
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