New York City Mandates Carbon Monoxide Detectors

NEW YORK, New York, May 7, 2004 (ENS) - In the first two months of 2004 there were four deaths due to carbon monoxide poisoning in New York City, in addition to a number of building evacuations and subsequent hospitalizations. In response to these deaths and an estimated 300 deaths each year across the country, New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg signed a bill into law Wednesday requiring the installation of carbon monoxide detectors in multiple and private dwellings, schools and hospitals.

The bill outlines responsibilities for both landlords and tenants with regard to notification, testing and maintenance. In residential buildings, the carbon monoxide detectors now must be installed within 15 feet of each bedroom.

For schools and hospitals, the devices must be installed in compliance with rules issued by the Commissioner of the Department of Buildings in conjunction with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and the Fire Department.

“Carbon monoxide poisoning is a very serious health concern, and the installation of detectors is an important part of an overall prevention strategy," Mayor Bloomberg said, signing the bill into law.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas produced as a result of the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, including coal, wood, natural gas and fuel oil used in boilers, heating furnaces and other appliances.

When properly maintained, boilers and furnaces produce minimal amounts of carbon monoxide but "when improperly adjusted, installed, or vented, carbon monoxide levels can rise dramatically," the mayor said. The detectors must be installed wherever a fossil fuel burning furnace or boiler is located.

It is just common sense, the mayor said, that all fuel burning appliances should be inspected and properly adjusted on an annual basis, heating systems should be professionally inspected and maintained each year before the heating season begins, and residents should refrain from using cooking appliances as heating devices.

Carbon monoxide poisoning may result in nausea, headaches, dizziness and eventually unconsciousness and death.

The bill takes effect November 5, just in time for the 2004-2005 heating season.