Feb 15 2007
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) today reminds people on construction sites of the dangers of using equipment powered by internal combustion engines in confined or poorly ventilated spaces.
It follows an accident on 22nd December 2006, where three men suffered fatal poisoning from carbon monoxide (CO) on a construction site in Reading. The source of the carbon monoxide is believed to have been a generator, which was being run inside a steel storage container. Contrary to previous reports, it does not appear that the men were sleeping inside the container.
Carbon monoxide is the silent killer. It is a colourless, odourless, poisonous gas, and if detected too late, it may not be possible to escape from danger. It can take a matter of minutes for dangerous levels of carbon monoxide to be produced inside a confined space.
Construction sites should also beware that (flueless) open flame heaters fuelled by natural gas or Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG), require an adequate supply of fresh air to prevent formation of high concentrations of carbon monoxide.
The HSE, who have been assisting the police, have now taken the lead for this investigation. Karen Morris, Inspector of Health and Safety, states,
"This is a tragic accident which could have been prevented by taking simple precautions. People need to be aware that plant and equipment powered by engines are potential killers if they are not used with adequate ventilation."