Safe Levels of Carbon Monoxide Exposure

Safe levels of carbon monoxide (CO) exposure refer to the concentration of CO in the air that is unlikely to cause harmful health effects. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that indoor air should not exceed 9 parts per million (ppm) of CO averaged over 8 hours. Short-term exposure to levels above 35 ppm can cause symptoms like headaches or dizziness. Because CO is a colorless, odorless gas, proper ventilation and functioning detectors are essential for safety. Maintaining levels within these limits helps prevent poisoning, which can be dangerous or even fatal.