Carbon monoxide, the silent killer. Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas that can be produced by incomplete combustion in heating units. Homes with gas appliances that have not been properly serviced are susceptible to carbon monoxide build up. It is not only dangerous, but high levels of exposure to carbon monoxide can even be fatal. The best way to mitigate the risk of carbon monoxide is to ensure that all gas appliances are regularly maintained and serviced by expert gas fitters that use the latest in climate control technology.
The dangers of carbon monoxide
The nature of carbon monoxide (being odourless and colourless) makes it extremely difficult to detect without expert tools. Couple that with the fact that exposure symptoms overlap with those of other diseases. For instance, headaches, fatigue and nausea are all symptoms of influenza, but they could also mean that carbon monoxide is affecting indoor air quality.
Although small quantities of exposure are not lethal, higher quantities can contribute to individuals passing out, or even death. There have been numerous cases throughout New Zealand of carbon monoxide hospitalising and in some cases killing, individuals. Unfortunately safe gas unit management is not always common public knowledge. If left unchecked, even low exposure can affect productivity and safety for those exposed to it.
Improving gas unit safety
It is highly recommended that all gas appliances should be serviced at least once every two years in order to ensure there is no risk of carbon monoxide leakage. It is important that the gas fitter or other maintenance service used should be accredited and comply with NZ safety standards.
How Testo helps reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning
The first step is educating the general public about the dangers of carbon monoxide. The second is to make sure that accredited gas fitters are equipped with the best climate monitoring tools for the job.
Testo offers gas fitters and plumbers the best in-class equipment possible. Testo offers a range of gas analysis systems to aid experts in assessing safety in the home. Testo’s 310 Flue Gas Analyser uses ultra-sensitive sensor technology that is capable of analysing up to five different gasses, giving better oversight in to uncovering any issues your gas heating units may have.
Furthermore, the Testo 315-3 Ambient Carbon Monoxide Meter provides a quick, simple and convenient way to test for ambient gasses, ensuring there is no risk to indoor air quality.
If you would like to know more details about our climate monitoring tools, get in contact with the Testo team today!