Last month, the Royal Bahamas Police Force confirmed that carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning was the cause of death for three American tourists that died during their stay at a luxury resort on the island of Great Exuma. The mysterious deaths made international headlines earlier this year and according to the police department, the matter remains under active investigation as the source of the carbon monoxide is unclear.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that kills without warning. It claims the lives of hundreds of people every year and makes thousands more ill. CO poisoning occurs because red blood cells pick up carbon monoxide quicker than they pick up oxygen. If there is a lot of CO in the air, the body may replace oxygen in the blood with carbon monoxide, blocking oxygen from getting into the body. Certain groups, such as unborn babies, infants and people with chronic heart disease, anemia or respiratory problems, are more susceptible to its effects.
Some of the most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and confusion. High levels of CO can quickly cause loss of consciousness and death. People who are sleeping or intoxicated can even die from CO poisoning before ever experiencing symptoms. Unless suspected, CO poisoning can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms mimic other illnesses.
“Carbon Monoxide is found in combustion fumes, such as those produced by cars and trucks, small gasoline engines, stoves, lanterns, burning charcoal and wood, and gas ranges and heating systems,” said Harry Pena, President of Zimmetry Environmental. “CO can build up in an enclosed or semi-enclosed space, quickly creating a hazardous environment.”
Working with building owners and operators to identify exposure risks to carbon monoxide and other combustion gases are the indoor air quality (IAQ) and building science professionals at Zimmetry Environmental. They offer testing and consulting services to identify and mitigate exposure risks to CO and many other airborne hazards, including chemical and biological pollutants that may be found in residential and commercial properties.
To learn more about Zimmetry's industrial hygiene, environmental, indoor air quality, compliance and consulting services, please visit www.zimmetry.com, call (787) 995.0005 or email info@zimmetry.com .
About Zimmetry Environmental
Since 2002, Zimmetry Environmental has been providing environmental consulting services to building owners and managers, architects, engineers, EHS professionals and Fortune 500 companies. The company is based in Puerto Rico and provides services across the Caribbean and Central America. The professionals at Zimmetry offer environmental compliance, indoor air quality, asbestos, lead-based paint, Phase I ESAs and general environmental consulting services.
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