How to Know if Your Vessel is Leaking Carbon Monoxide (and What to Do)

An onboard carbon monoxide (CO) leak warrants prompt attention and repair as performed by a qualified maritime mechanic. A vessel should not be operated until confirmation that the carbon monoxide leak has been repaired.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a harmful and potentially fatal medical emergency. An individual exhibiting signs of carbon monoxide poisoning should receive immediate attention from a qualified medical professional. Maritime workers and recreational boaters are among those at risk for exposure to carbon monoxide.

Common Sources of Carbon Monoxide Aboard Vessels

Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas. It quickly can accumulate in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces. Carbon monoxide is typically created when an onboard combustion source is not properly vented, installed or maintained.

According to the United States Coast Guard, the most common sources of carbon monoxide include:

• outside air intakes;
• engines;
• kerosene space heaters (and other heat sources); and
• other appliances (such as kitchen ranges, stoves and more).

Exhaust vent areas are another common source for potentially toxic carbon monoxide buildup and emission. Recreational boaters are at an increased risk of suffering carbon monoxide poisoning when swimming near the back deck of an idling boat.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Exposure to carbon monoxide is dangerous because red blood cells pick up carbon monoxide molecules more quickly than they do oxygen molecules. This, in turn, blocks oxygen from reaching vital organs. This may result in tissue damage and even death.

Signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, according to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), include:

• headache;
• weakness;
• dizziness;
• confusion;
• chest pain;
• feeling sick to the stomach;
• vomiting; and
• loss of consciousness.

It should be noted that the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to the symptoms of seasickness. Those exposed to carbon monoxide while sleeping or under the influence of drugs or alcohol are especially at risk for fatal CO poisoning.

Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Aboard Small Commercial Vessels

Recreational and commercial vessel operators and crewmembers can take steps to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. These steps include:

• equipping all recreational and commercial vessels with functioning carbon monoxide detectors;
• conducting routine inspections of a vessel (including examining all rubber exhaust hoses and other components);
• replacing worn or cracked exhaust system components; and
• adhering to all federal guidelines for the maintenance and operation of commercial vessels.

A suspected and/or confirmed carbon monoxide leak requires an inspection and repair as performed by a qualified marine mechanic. Do not operate the vessel or allow passengers or crewmembers aboard until you have confirmed the CO leak has been remedied. This may require upgrades or other modifications to an exhaust system, water pump or other equipment.

The USCG requires commercial vessel operators to maintain specific logbooks, such as an engine logbook. Learn more by downloading this free guide. Place your order online or call 888-468-3757.