Since 50 ppm is the Occupation Health and Safety limit, is it safe for all people?
No. Respiratory capacity decreases and the risk of heart attack increases at levels well below 50 ppm. The EPA level of 9 ppm appears to be a reasonable limit in homes. When should CO poisoning be suspected? Some clues for a family include: • Entire family is sick at the same time. • Flu-like symptoms decrease while away from the house. • Illness is present when gas appliances are in use. • Excess moisture on the interior of windows. What should be done for someone who suffers from CO poisoning? They should immediately be moved into fresh air and medical authorities consulted. Treatment depends on the amount of carbon monoxide in the bloodstream and assessment of the patient. Often oxygen is administered. In severe cases, patients are treated in a hyperbaric chamber. This is a pressurized oxygen chamber. The combination of oxygen and elevated pressure quickly and thoroughly forces carbon monoxide from the body. Following are the locations of hyperbaric chambers in Iowa. • Iowa Methodis
