Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Risks in Business Premises: Protecting Your Employees, Customers, and Residents

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas that can be deadly if undetected.

Business premises−particularly those in industries that use fuel-burning appliances or equipment−are at an increased risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Care homes, schools, hotels, bed and breakfasts (B&Bs), and other hospitality venues are especially vulnerable due to their reliance on heating systems, water heaters, and cooking equipment, making it critical to put appropriate safety measures in place.

What is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels such as gas, oil, coal, wood, and propane do not burn fully. When inhaled, CO prevents oxygen from being carried in the bloodstream, leading to poisoning. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, confusion, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness and death.

Because carbon monoxide is invisible and has no smell or taste, it can easily go undetected unless proper safety measures are in place. Businesses in hospitality and care sectors are particularly at risk due to the higher use of boilers, heaters, and fuel-burning stoves, which, if improperly maintained, can result in dangerous CO leaks.

Businesses at Higher Risk
• Care Homes: Residents are often at higher risk due to their vulnerability, and many care homes rely on gas-powered heating systems, which can produce CO if not properly ventilated or maintained.
• Schools: Classrooms, kitchens, and heating systems in schools can pose a risk if gas appliances are not regularly inspected or properly ventilated.
• Hotels and B&Bs: Guests staying in rooms equipped with older gas boilers or heaters may be exposed to CO if safety procedures are not in place.
• Restaurants and Cafes: Kitchens that use gas cookers, ovens, or grills are also prone to carbon monoxide buildup if ventilation systems fail or if equipment is faulty.

Your Responsibilities as a Business
Employers in any sector are responsible for protecting their employees, customers, and residents from the risks of carbon monoxide exposure. Adhering to The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 is vital to preventing CO poisoning. Specific steps should be taken to mitigate these risks, particularly in industries where fuel-burning equipment is common.

Steps to Reduce Carbon Monoxide Risks
1. Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure that CO detectors are installed in areas with gas appliances, heating systems, or other fuel-burning equipment. Regularly test these detectors to ensure they are functioning properly.
2. Ensure Proper Ventilation: Regularly inspect and maintain ventilation systems, chimneys, and flues to prevent blockages and ensure that CO can escape safely.
3. Maintain Equipment: Have gas boilers, heaters, and cooking appliances serviced regularly by qualified professionals. Faulty equipment is one of the most common sources of carbon monoxide leaks.
4. Provide Training: Train employees, staff, or managers to recognise the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and ensure they know how to respond in an emergency. This is especially important in industries like hospitality and care where large numbers of people may be at risk.
5. Develop Emergency Procedures: Ensure that there are clear, well-rehearsed procedures in place to deal with carbon monoxide leaks, including evacuations and medical response plans.

Simon Says:
Key Steps to Protect Your Business from Carbon Monoxide Risks

1. Install and Test Detectors
Ensure that carbon monoxide detectors are installed in key risk areas such as boiler rooms, kitchens, and guest accommodations. Regularly test and maintain them.
2. Service and Maintain Equipment
Schedule routine inspections and maintenance for all fuel-burning equipment, particularly in care homes, schools, and hospitality venues, to prevent potential CO hazards.
3. Train and Educate Staff
Provide your team with the knowledge to detect carbon monoxide exposure risks and how to act swiftly in the event of an incident.
4. Maintain Records and Documentation
Keep thorough records of equipment inspections, maintenance, and testing. Having up-to-date documentation ensures compliance with regulations and provides proof of due diligence in case of an incident.