CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM LAW
Florida recently passed an act relating to carbon monoxide detectors; amending s. 509.211, F.S.; requiring that certain public lodging establishments be equipped with carbon monoxide sensor devices; specifying approved types of devices; providing requirements for the installation of such devices; creating s. 553.885, F.S.; requiring that certain buildings constructed on or after a specified date be equipped with carbon monoxide alarms; providing requirements for the installation of such devices; requiring the Florida Building Commission to adopt rules; providing definitions; providing an effective date. Below is information on carbon monoxide (CO) and the requirements of the new law.
WHAT IS CARBON MONOXIDE?
Carbon monoxide is a highly toxic invisible gas. It is the product of the incomplete combustion (burning) of wood and fossil fuels such as home heating fuel oil, natural gas, gasoline, kerosene and coal. Major sources of CO in homes are from fuel burning (not electric) heaters, water heaters, fireplaces, wood burning stoves, gas clothing dryers and a vehicle running in a closed garage. When these appliances are not properly maintained or properly vented to a chimney, CO can build up in a building. Carbon monoxide is very dangerous because it is a colorless, odorless, tasteless and non-irritating gas. Breathing CO (resulting in CO poisoning) is harmful and can be fatal. The warning signs of CO poisoning are headache, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath and nausea.
WHAT DOES THE NEW CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM LAW REQUIRE?
Every building for which a building permit is issued for new construction and having a fossil-fuel-burning heater or appliance, a fireplace, or an attached garage shall have an approved operational carbon monoxide alarm.
WHEN MUST CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS BE INSTALLED?
Enforcement of the carbon monoxide alarm law occurred on July 1, 2008.
WHAT TYPES OF CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS ARE REQUIRED?
Carbon monoxide alarms must bear the label of a nationally recognized testing laboratory and have been tested and listed as complying with the most recent Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., Standard 2034/2075. Hardwire with battery backup and combination alarms have been approved.
WHERE SHOULD CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS BE INSTALLED?
Carbon monoxide alarms are required to be installed within 10 feet of each room used for sleeping purposes. The alarms can be installed on walls or ceilings (CO is approximately the same density as air) in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Combination smoke and CO alarms must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions for smoke alarms. CO alarms should not be placed in areas likely to be damaged by children or pets.
WHAT SHOULD BE DONE IF A CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM ACTIVATES?
If you know which unit is causing the problem, open windows, shut off the fuel supply to the unit and call a service company to have the unit repaired.
**If you do not know the cause of the activation of the alarm, remove everyone from the house and call the Fire Department (911).**
FOR QUESTIONS RELATED TO CARBON MONOXIDE LAW
Visit www.knowaboutco.com for more information.