NLIS 2
December 3, 2004
(Government Services)
 

Hazard alert - Carbon monoxide poisoning

The Department of Government Services, Occupational Health and Safety Branch, is reminding employers and employees of the dangers of working around propane-powered forklifts in enclosed spaces after a recent serious workplace incident.

The department is issuing a province-wide hazard alert and is recommending preventative tips to reduce the risk of exposure to carbon monoxide while working around this or similar types of equipment.

Two weeks ago, several warehouse workers in this province were hospitalized suffering from the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning. The workers were operating and working around propane-powered forklift trucks in a warehouse.

While it is believed there was some natural ventilation through open doors, the Occupational Health and Safety Branch is advising employers and employees that this is not a substitute for mechanical ventilation.

"Employers need to be aware of the requirements with respect to forklifts and ventilation," Government Services Minister Dianne Whalen said. "It�s important when operating these types of equipment that the areas are properly ventilated and monitored and the equipment is maintained in accordance with manufacturer�s specifications, which includes regular inspections."

Carbon monoxide is odourless, tasteless and colourless and is almost impossible to detect. It essentially blocks the absorption of oxygen into the bloodstream and therefore can be extremely hazardous or even fatal.

Further information is available on the department Web site at www.gov.nl.ca/gs/ohs

Media contact: Tracy Barron, Communications, (709) 729-4860 or 690-6157

HAZARD ALERT
Workers suffer carbon monoxide poisoning from forklifts

Several warehouse workers in this province were hospitalized recently suffering from the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning. The workers were in a warehouse operating and working around propane-powered forklift trucks, which appeared to be the source of the contaminant. While it is believed there was some natural ventilation through open doors, this is not a substitute for mechanical ventilation.

Carbon monoxide is an odourless, colourless and tasteless gas that is generated by gasoline and propane powered engines. Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause non-specific symptoms such as severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and drowsiness.

Recommended Preventative Measures

• Employers should consider using alternatives to internal combustion engines inside where possible. ( ie. electric forklifts or hydraulic jacks).
  

• When propane-powered forklifts are used inside a building:
  
  

  • Owners must ensure, through regularly scheduled emission tests, that carbon monoxide levels emitted are within the manufacturer�s recommended standard for that particular piece of equipment.
    
    

  • Carbon monoxide monitors should be strategically located throughout the work area, including adjacent office areas.
    
    

  • A mechanical ventilation system should be appropriately designed, installed and maintained to control workplace contaminates.
    
    

  • Workers must be educated in the dangers and recognition of carbon monoxide poisoning.

2004 12 03                          4:25 p.m.