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
The effects of carbon monoxide in the body are determined by the amount inhaled (dose). Factors which
affect the dose include:
concentration of carbon monoxide in air
length of exposure
rate of work (how much air we inhale)
Three other factors that determine the effect carbon monoxide has on the body are:
age
individual susceptibility
smoker versus non-smoker (smokers have higher levels of carbon monoxide in their blood and may
experience harmful effects at lower concentrations)
How do high levels of carbon monoxide affect the body?
Carbon monoxide in the blood prevents the tissues from receiving adequate oxygen. The most sensitive
tissues are those of the nervous system and the heart, and the most susceptible people are those with
heart and lung problems.
What about low levels?
Prolonged or repeated exposure to low levels of carbon monoxide are typical workplace exposures.
Sources include cigarette smoking and motor vehicles. At airborne concentrations of about 50 ppm,
specific effects may not be immediately noticeable but exposure may reduce:
alertness
perception
performance of fine motor tasks
These subtle effects may not be recognized by the person affected. They usually occur at or above
standards established for workplace exposure. Similar effects are produced by other causes which may
be confused with those produced by carbon monoxide. These include:
common drugs
beverages
food
fatigue
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