UFCW | Floor Buffers and Carbon Monoxide

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Propane-Powered Floor Buffers Expose Workers to Carbon Monoxide

Workers who use propane-powered floor burnishers to polish floors frequently are exposed to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, and poisonous gas. Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause nausea, headaches, weakness, and dizziness; extended exposure may result in loss of consciousness or death.

To Avoid the Risk of Worker Exposure to Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:

A recent study found that propane-powered buffers fitted with emissions controls can reduce maximum worker exposure to carbon monoxide by 91 percent.
These controls include a self-aspirating catalytic muffler and computerized monitors and alarms which detect and burn incompletely combusted fuel, which contains carbon monoxide, emitted by the engine.
Be aware that controls must be properly fitted and maintained--blocked air filters, alarm failures, and other mechanical malfunctions with controls may lead to excessive carbon monoxide emissions.
The single best way to eliminate entirely the risk of carbon monoxide exposure is for employers to use electric-powered floor burnishers.

For more information, contact the UFCW Occupational Safety and Health Office.