Minnesota signed a new law in 2006 (MN SB 299F.50) which requires approved CO alarms in all residences throughout the state. 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?
All residences throughout the state including newly constructed and existing single- and mutli-family dwellings have one or more properly installed and functional carbon monoxide alarms.
WHEN MUST CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS BE INSTALLED?
The law’s first tier, which required CO alarms in newly constructed single- and multi-family dwellings, went into effect January 1, 2007. The second tier went into effect August 1, 2008 and requires all existing single family homes to have one or more
properly installed and functional carbon monoxide alarms. The final tier of the law occurs August 1, 2009 and will require all existing multifamily dwellings to have CO alarms.
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. Hardwire, plug-in, and battery powered carbon monoxide
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.
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.