3 Ways To Prevent The Common Gas Exposure Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is a proven health hazard. Given all the machinery and possibly toxic-releasing equipment used in construction sites, it is likely that this gas is released while employees are hard at work.

Its odourless nature proves how dangerous it is in blending with the other smells and gases present. Especially since carbon monoxide is virtually unnoticeable until it is too late – exposure to this gas is very dangerous. Within minutes of exposure, one is rendered unconscious and may even suffocate. At a construction site, welders face the most risk among all the workers; carbon monoxide leaks are mostly found in oil refineries, warehouses, factories manufacturing steel and even boiler rooms.

Many measures have been put in place to protect workers from carbon monoxide poisoning. For example, getting a Singapore occupational health and safety certificate shows that your company is taking the right measures to avoid such accidents. Below are a few tips on how to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning accidents.

1. Proper use of portable generators

Many construction projects utilise the ever-convenient portable generator. Generators are necessary during construction because the electric wiring has yet to be completed. When using the generator, it is common for workers to forget the potential dangers that come with this machine. If not well utilised, operated and maintained, these generators become a costly accident waiting to happen.

While in use, these generators should be placed in properly ventilated spaces. The reason being their gas-powered nature causes them to produce a substantial amount of carbon monoxide. These generators should therefore never be used in enclosed rooms. For construction safety, users are advised to place them away from walls and ceilings.

2. Appropriate equipment and safety

Individuals on site should be given portable multi-gas monitors. These devices are incredibly lightweight and functional, allowing them to be easily carried on by the worker. While carrying these devices, workers will receive prompt alerts on the presence of toxic gases. Together with these monitors, workers should make use of other appropriate safety gear such as breathing apparatuses.

A steady oxygen supply will prevent them from getting CO poisoning. Where possible, gas-powered machinery should be replaced with hydraulic, battery or pneumatically powered equipment. Including an adequate ventilation system on the construction site would also be an excellent measure.

In choosing the appropriate and safe equipment, the Apply Workplace Safety and Health (AWSH) in Metalwork (MSOC) course is tailored to equip your workers in navigating the metalworking factory. Besides essential knowledge on safety standards, the course empowers workers on its application onsite. They will learn their role and duties in the factory better and practise emergency response should safety measures be unfortunately compromised, as elaborated below.

3. Appropriate reaction

Workers on all construction sites should be well prepared on what to do in case of accidents and injuries. These accidents would include CO poisoning. Identifying the signs of a carbon monoxide leak will help them act swiftly to manage the situation. Well-trained workers will be able to observe the symptoms of CO exposure for both themselves and their colleagues.

The signs manifest in the form of vomiting, lightheadedness, dizziness and breathing difficulties. Once they discern a case of CO exposure, workers should swiftly move to a better-ventilated area and contact emergency services. After workers are moved out of danger, those who are severely exposed should be given oxygen masks. The oxygen will restore their blood O2 levels and kick start recovery. As such, having workers who can perform CPR is very valuable in such situations and better ensures a safer workplace.

To increase your factory’s safety level and therefore, productivity, it is crucial to educate yourself and your workers. With sufficient knowledge and application, workplace safety will be much more manageable in the long term.

So, if you’re seeking training and knowledge of performing your tasks and responsibilities with greater skill - the Apply Workplace Safety and Health in Construction Sites (CSOC) lets a worker gain a better understanding of important safety procedures, health hazards, and safety requirements. However, if you’re simply looking to renew your certification - Wong Fong Academy (WFA) offers Apply Workplace Safety and Health in Construction Sites (CSOC) - Recertification to individuals interested in doing their 2 or 4 year recertification.