Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Warning - Media Statement
[ Last Updated 8 March 2006 ]
Recent cases of carbon monoxide poisoning have highlighted the need for consumers to make sure that their gas appliances are properly installed, and are maintained on a regular basis.
"Gas appliances that are incorrectly installed, faulty or poorly-maintained, or ones that are operated in a space that’s too small or inadequately ventilated, can produce deadly concentrations of carbon monoxide," said Graham Boxall, Manager, Energy Safety Operations, Energy Safety Service.
"Natural gas and LPG appliances, such as water heaters, should be installed by a licensed craftsman gasfitter," said Graham Boxall.
Low levels of this odourless, colourless gas can cause tiredness, headaches, nausea and vomiting. Continued exposure to carbon monoxide can lead to unconsciousness, or even death.
"If you suspect you may have been exposed to carbon monoxide move into clean air, seek immediate medical attention, and ventilate the room if it can be done safely.
"Gas appliances need to be used in well-ventilated areas with plenty of fresh air circulating. Gas appliances need to be checked annually to assure effective and safe operation," said Graham Boxall.
Unflued appliances must not be installed or used in bedrooms and bathrooms, where appliances may be unsupervised or the room size may be small. Flued appliances in these rooms should have permanent ventilation, and newly installed appliances must
be specially flued so that air is drawn from outside of the house.
Signs that an appliance is not working correctly, or that the flue is blocked, include:
- a yellow flame, rather than a blue one (except for some 'flame effect' heaters that are designed to burn with a yellow flame).
- soot deposits in or around the appliance.
- an unusual or unpleasant smell.
"If you notice any of these signs, turn off the appliance and contact a licensed craftsman gasfitter immediately," said Graham Boxall.
In summary make sure your gas appliance:
- is installed by a licensed craftsman gasfitter
- is properly maintained. Have it, and any flue it may be connected to, checkedannually by a licensed craftsman gasfitter or authorised service agent
- is well ventilated. Keeping a window open a little is a good idea, as it also helps remove the moisture produced by unflued gas appliances.
Make sure you:
- Don’t use unflued gas appliances, such as cabinet heaters or instantaneous water heaters, in small rooms such as bedrooms and bathrooms.
- Don’t use your gas cook-top or oven as a space heater. They are not designed for unsupervised operation and, if used this way, can emit high levels of carbon monoxide.
- Don’t use outdoor gas appliances indoors. Gas barbecues, patio heaters, lamps and camping appliances may produce relatively high levels of carbon monoxide and are not suitable for indoor use.
- Don’t boil a very large pot of water on a single gas burner. Boil several smaller pots (with their lids on). This reduces the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from incomplete combustion.
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