Carbon Monoxide Risks in Commercial & Residential Buildings across Puerto Rico

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico - March 2, 2015 - PRLog -- According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year more than 400 Americans die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning, more than 20,000 visit the emergency room and more than 4,000 are hospitalized due to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide, or CO, is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death. People and animals can all be at risk for CO poisoning. This 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 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.

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. CO from these sources can build up in an enclosed or semi-enclosed space and people can be poisoned by breathing it.

“The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and confusion,” said Harry Pena, President of Zimmetry Environmental.  “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.”

The indoor air quality (IAQ) and building science professionals at Zimmetry Environmental provide real-time testing for CO and other potentially hazardous gases.  They also offer testing for chemical and biological pollutants that may be found in residential and commercial properties.

To learn more about Zimmetry Environmental and air, environmental and compliance 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 IESAs and general environmental consulting services.