Carbon Monoxide Claims

Carbon monoxide can have very dangerous effects on the lungs if high concentrations of it are inhaled. It can lead to death if initial symptoms are not noticed quickly.

When carbon monoxide particles combine with the red blood cells of the body, oxygen is removed from the blood and this is when CO poisoning occurs. Your organs and tissues are effectively being starved of oxygen which will cause your body to react in the same way as if you were being drowned or suffocated.

The silent killer

The odourless, colourless nature of Carbon Monoxide has led to it being labelled as the ‘silent killer’. It cannot be detected by our sense of smell or sight which means that there is a very real possibility you might not notice until it is too late. This is particularly pertinent if a leak occurs when you are sleeping.

When does carbon monoxide poisoning occur?

Carbon monoxide poisoning could occur at any time in many places, but these are the most frequent scenarios in which claims are made:

In a rented property with gas appliances

It is a legal requirement for private landlords or housing associations to inspect and maintain gas appliances on a regular basis, e.g. boilers, central heating systems, gas cookers, gas fires and any other type of gas appliance.

All gas appliances must have a certification and be examined regularly by an approved engineer. Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors provide a second layer of protection in case any appliance does have a leak.

In the workplace

Carbon monoxide can be discharged from various types of equipment that might be found in the workplace. The employer should ensure that workers are safe by inspecting and maintaining this equipment on a regular basis. Moreover, any equipment malfunctions should be detected immediately if the workplace has the appropriate detector equipment installed.

The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning

There are a number of different symptoms associated with CO poisoning, but the most common are:

• A feeling of confusion
• Dizziness and headaches
• Heart palpitations
• Shortness of breath
• Sickness and abdominal pains
• Tiredness

The effects of carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide poisoning can have some devastating long-term consequences, including:

• Brain damage
• Death
• Heart injuries
• Psychological injuries including depression

Contact Jefferies to discuss your claim on 0333 358 3034 or feel free to fill out our online contact form.