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1. Introduction
The Ei207/208 Carbon monoxide Alarms contain a proven electrochemical CO sensor to
detect the presence of toxic levels of Carbon Monoxide (CO).
1.1 What is Carbon Monoxide ?
Many people are killed each year, and many more suffer ill health from Carbon Monoxide
(CO) poisoning. CO is an invisible, odourless, tasteless and extremely toxic gas. It is produced
by appliances and vehicles burning fuels, such as coal, oil, natural/bottled gas, paraffin, wood,
petrol, diesel, charcoal etc. CO is absorbed by red blood cells in the lungs in preference to
oxygen - this results in rapid damage to the heart and brain from oxygen starvation.
High levels of CO in a house can be caused by:
• Incorrectly or poorly installed fuel-burning appliances.
• Blocked or cracked chimneys/flues.
• Blocked vents or draught-proofing which makes areas with fuel burning appliances or
fireplaces airtight.
• Engines of cars, lawnmowers etc. left running in confined spaces.
• Portable paraffin or gas heaters in badly ventilated rooms.
Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Most people know that high levels of CO are harmful, however the period of exposure is
also important. Table A shows how exposure to different concentrations of CO generally
affects people.
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