Questions? +32 460 226 991 (English), +33 644 634 490 (French). EU-wide delivery!
Questions? +32 460 226 991 (English), +33 644 634 490 (French). EU-wide delivery!
Most searched for brands of measuring and regulation technology
Carbon dioxide, although a natural part of the Earth's atmosphere, is classified as a toxic gas. Its increased concentration can threaten human health and life. The greatest risk is in specific industrial sectors, but there is also some danger in households and public buildings.
Yes, although severe CO2 poisoning is extremely rare, it is a toxic gas that poses a threat to human and animal health.
Carbon dioxide is produced during various biochemical processes, such as breathing, combustion, photosynthesis, composting, or fermentation. It is therefore a common component of the air – making up about 0.04% of the air we breathe. The limit inside buildings in the Czech Republic is set at 0.15%, a concentration that does not cause any problems for humans.
CO2 concentration can be elevated in any interior, but the level of risk varies significantly:
In ordinary households, there can only be a slightly increased concentration of CO2, and that is in the case of insufficient ventilation. It is therefore important to ensure an oxygen supply, or possibly install a CO2 detector that will reliably and accurately inform you about the air quality in the home.
In enclosed interiors with a larger number of people, such as schools, offices, or commercial spaces, the risk is somewhat higher. The concentration of CO2 rises much faster here, and if, for example, the ventilation system fails, moderate CO2 poisoning can occur. Detection using CO2 sensors is therefore strongly recommended here.
In addition, there are specific places and situations where the concentration of CO2 can exceed a life-threatening level. These include breweries, wine cellars, incinerators, boiler rooms, garages, caves, shafts, or greenhouses. Here, much more CO2 is produced than in normal conditions. In some of these cases, CO2 detection is even mandated by law, although the permissible limits are higher than in public buildings – for example, in breweries and wineries, the current standard allows a concentration of 5% CO2 for a maximum of 8 hours.
In enclosed offices, schools, or commercial buildings, there is a risk of increased CO2 concentration.
Most people have experienced the symptoms of mild carbon dioxide intoxication – it is the common discomfort we feel in stuffy rooms, such as fatigue, impaired concentration, headache, nausea, lethargy, etc. These conditions occur at CO2 concentrations of about 0.2%.
At extremely high concentrations around 5-10%, carbon dioxide causes unconsciousness, and concentrations above 20% can lead to death. CO2 binds to hemoglobin in the blood, thereby limiting the transport of oxygen in the human body. A person can breathe normally, but so-called internal suffocation occurs.
Apart from the initial symptoms of poisoning, which are quite non-specific, only a quality gas detector can help you detect dangerous CO2 concentrations. Carbon dioxide cannot be detected by the senses – this gas is colorless, tasteless, and odorless. The symptoms of poisoning can also easily be mistaken for other health issues, making risk detection even more difficult.
Installing a CO2 alarm in your home provides perfect control over air quality. Some models also measure other values, such as humidity and temperature, which are factors that also contribute to the degree of "staleness" of the air.
Home detectors typically feature a clear display where you can see the CO2 concentration in real-time. If the concentration increases, the detector will alert you with an audible or visual signal. In such a case, ventilate thoroughly, and if symptoms of poisoning occur, provide first aid.
Carbon dioxide is heavier than air, so CO2 sensors are installed about 10-20 cm above the floor. The display of the detector with the control unit can, of course, be placed at eye level.
Evikon carbon dioxide detector for industry.
As mentioned above, in some sectors, CO2 detection is legally required, while in others it is at least recommended. Detection of hazardous gases, including carbon dioxide, is part of occupational health and safety. Employers are obliged not only to prevent the risk of increased concentrations of hazardous gases but also to regularly train employees on emergency procedures.
Industrial CO2 detectors can be calibrated for several CO2 concentrations and connected to various safety and warning systems. Two-stage signaling can work as follows: at a slightly increased concentration (first warning threshold), ventilation is automatically activated, and a light warning sign is illuminated; at a high concentration (second warning threshold), an audible and visual alarm is added.
Gas detectors for industry must be properly maintained and regularly calibrated according to the manufacturer's or supplier's instructions. Models from leading global manufacturers are characterized by robust construction and very precise and reliable sensors, making them suitable even for demanding conditions. Besides CO2 sensors, combined gas and CO detectors are most commonly used in industry.
Even though cases of severe carbon dioxide poisoning are extremely rare, it is not advisable to underestimate the quality of the air we breathe – whether at home or at work. In certain environments where the risk of dangerous CO2 concentrations is higher, CO2 alarms can prevent unpleasant symptoms of intoxication and nausea.
Bola.cz
