UEi Test Instruments C127OILKIT - Manual (Page 10)

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Although there are several sources causing CO over-exposure conditions, there are a few common problems
related to combustion, such as inadequate ventilation, tight buildings, and fuels releasing CO.
PPM CO Time Symptoms
9 PPM - 24 hour National ambient air quality limit for CO (EPA’s outdoor) (ASHRAE indoor)
CO “Action” level for many public safety organizations.
35 PPM 8 hours Maximum 8 hr workplace exposure (OSHA)
200 PPM 3 hours Mild headache, fatigue, nausea and dizziness.
400 PPM 2 hours Serious headache, dizziness, and nausea. Life threatening after 3 hours.
800 PPM 45 min Dizziness, nausea, convulsions, and unconsciousness. Death within 2-3 hrs.
3200 PPM 5-10 min Dizziness, nausea, convulsions, and unconsciousness. Death within 25-30 min.
6400 PPM 1-2 min Death within 10-15 minutes.
12,800 PPM 30 sec Death within 1-3 minutes.
The above information has been compiled from a number of sources listed below, and is intended as non-
technical reference related to Carbon Monoxide poisoning within a work environment as it relates to the Combustion
Analyzers and/or CO detectors being used. Such equipment being operated in these conditions are intended to be used
by qualified professionals or under the supervision of one. UEi strongly urges all technicians to follow state and local
guidelines and safety regulations. The above information is provided in good faith and is believed to be correct as of the
date compiled. It is expected that individuals receiving the information will exercise their independent judgment in
determining its appropriateness for a particular purpose. Accordingly, UEi will not be responsible for damages of any
kind resulting from the use of this information or updates of data post printing.
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienist (ACGIH)
Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA)
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
American Society of Heating, Refrigeration & Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA)
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When victims inhale CO, the toxic gas enters the bloodstream and replaces the oxygen molecules
found on the critical blood component, hemoglobin, depriving the heart and brain of the oxygen necessary to
function.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Symptoms
• Mild exposure:
- Often described as flu-like symptoms, including slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue.
• Medium exposure:
- Severe throbbing headache, drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.
• Extreme exposure:
- Unconsciousness, convulsions, cardiorespiratory failure, death.
CO poisoning victims may initially suffer flu-like symptoms including nausea, fatigue, headaches,
dizziness, confusion and breathing difficulty. Because CO poisoning often causes a victim’s blood pressure
to rise, the victim’s skin may become pink and flushed. Many cases of reported carbon monoxide poisoning
indicate that while victims are aware they are not well, they become so disoriented, that they are unable to save
themselves by either exiting the building or calling for assistance.
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