Carbon monoxide (CO)) - carbon monoxide is an odourless colourless gas formed during the incomplete combustion of fuels containing carbon. Road traffic accounts for over half of the UK emissions. Older, poorly-maintained vehicles are a significant source - especially while idling or starting form cold.
For more detailed information about carbon monoxide visit the ARIC website.
Carbon monoxide affects the body's oxygen uptake and can cause headaches, fatigue and drowsiness at low to moderate levels. It can worsen pre-existing medical conditions such as cardio-vascular disease.
In the home, very high concentrations of CO can kill - every year about 30 people in the UK die from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by gas appliances that have not been properly installed or maintained. For more information about carbon monoxide poisoning, its' effects and symptoms visit the following websites:-
Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
NHS - Information about carbon monoxide poisoning
CORGI - carbon monoxide information
