Each year as the bottom drops out of the thermometer and winter storms begin to blow through, farmers come up with all kinds of creative ways to stay warm. Some of these strategies have the potential of exposing them, their families and employees to excessive levels of carbon monoxide (CO). In some cases, this exposure can prove to be deadly.
An estimated 400 Americans die each year due to exposure to CO. Thousands more are treated from the effects of exposure. This odorless, colorless gas can go undetected and reach deadly levels quickly in unventilated or enclosed spaces. Symptoms, which often appear too late, can include headaches, mental confusion, vomiting, loss of muscle control and finally, loss of consciousness.
Based upon past documented incidents, the risk of CO exposure on farms is highest in farm shops and garages where tractors and other vehicles are allowed to warm up with the doors closed; livestock buildings where faulty gas heaters can leak CO into the building or where your gas-powered, high-pressure washers are operated without adequate ventilation; inside older vehicles with faulty exhaust systems that allow CO to lead into the vehicle; and from temporary oil-fueled heating units used as a supplemental heat source or during power outages.
To reduce the risk of CO exposure, farm operators should consider:
- Installing CO monitors, often sold as accessories to many fire detectors, in all enclosed areas where workers may be exposed to operating vehicles, welding fumes or oil-fired heaters.
- Prohibiting the use of gas-powered equipment and vehicles inside unvented or poorly vented spaces.
- Inspecting the exhaust systems of all gas- or diesel-powered vehicles to identify potential leaks.
- Becoming aware of the signs and symptoms of CO poisoning and first-aid measures.
For more information on the hazards of CO exposure, visit the NIOSH website.
William E. Field is a professor and extension safety specialist in the agricultural and biological engineering department at Purdue University.
