Carbon Monoxide Emissions

The Nature of Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless gas emitted from combustion processes.  Nationally and, particularly in urban areas, the majority of CO emissions to ambient air come from mobile sources.  CO can cause harmful health effects by reducing oxygen delivery to the body's organs (like the heart and brain) and tissues.  At extremely high levels, CO can cause death.  More info of Carbon Monoxide can be obtained from previous entry.

Standard and Regulation of Carbon Monoxide

EPA first set air quality standards for CO in 1971.  For protection of both public health and welfare, EPA set a 8-hour primary standard at 9 parts per million (ppm) and a 1-hour primary standard at 35 ppm. 

In a review of the standards completed in 1985, EPA revoked the secondary standards (for public welfare) due to a lack of evidence of adverse effects on public welfare at or near ambient concentrations. 

(sources: http://www.epa.gov/airquality/carbonmonoxide/)

This video is presenting the Cause and Effects of Carbon Monoxide.  Happy Watching!