Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas which is slightly lighter than air. It is highly toxic to humans and animals in higher quantities. This being said, any enclosed space in a boat can trap CO. The American Boat and Yacht Counsel (ABYC) Recommend CO detector be mounted as follows
ABYC A-24.7.1
A carbon monoxide detection system shall be installed on all boats with an enclosed accommodation compartment(s) and,
24.7.1.1 a gasoline generator set, or
24.7.1.2 an inboard gasoline propulsion engine.
24.7.2 Detectors shall be located to monitor the atmosphere in the main cabin and each sleeping area
This being said, CO don't just come from your boat, a boat next to you with the generator running or engines, can envelope your boat in a "cloud" of CO.
There is also the "Station Wagon" effect while you are running, the exhaust can come back into your cabin. I have personally seen examples of both in my 25 years in the Marine field. Two people died in there sleep aboard their boat at the dock with the generator running ( Shore cord was bad so decided to run the generator ) Two kids were air lifted to the hospital after they were found unresponsive in the cabin of a flybridge boat on its way to the summer slip. Parents were up top running, kids inside playing games. Cabin door was open.
CO is very dangerous in boats and all boats should have CO detectors and they should be tested every time you go aboard. Dont just pull the wire to shut it off
A boat produces the highest concentration of carbon monoxide in the exhaust system.
A boat produces the highest concentration of carbon monoxide in the exhaust system.
A vessel would produce the highest concentration of Carbon Monoxide near the engine and exhaust outlets.
A boat would produce the highest concentration of carbon monoxide when operating at full throttle or high speeds, as the engines burn more fuel and produce more emissions under these conditions. Additionally, operating in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas, such as marinas or narrow channels, can trap carbon monoxide, leading to higher concentrations. Poorly maintained engines or the use of older two-stroke engines can also contribute to increased carbon monoxide production.
A pleasure craft would produce the highest concentration of carbon monoxide in areas where the engine is running at high RPMs, particularly in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces such as engine compartments or marinas. Additionally, idling in confined areas can lead to a buildup of exhaust gases, increasing carbon monoxide levels. It's crucial to ensure proper ventilation and avoid prolonged engine operation in these conditions to minimize exposure.
Carbon dioxide
The chemical formula for carbon monoxide is CO. Therefore, the chemical formula for 4 molecules of carbon monoxide would be 4CO.
The family would of died from carbon monoxide poisioning if the alarm did not go off.
Practically instant unconsciousness followed by a quick death.
Carbon monoxide kills within a few seconds, but it also depends on how much of the area has filled up with the gases and how quickly a person would pass out due to the carbon monoxide gas.
I have a carbon monoxide detector. If a leak is detected, what type of company would I call to repair it?
Carbon monoxide mixes with air and is an extremely dangerous gas when highly concentrated in an enclosed space. A high concentration of carbon monoxide in inhaled air prevents the lungs of people and animals from transferring oxygen to the blood, and death may occur. For this reason, carbon dioxide detectors are recommended in closed buildings having gas or wood burning heating and cooking systems. Incomplete combustion may take place in gas and wood stoves, furnaces, or fireplaces. Carbon monoxide detectors provide a warning to people if carbon monoxide gas concentration becomes dangerously high in the air they breathe. carbon monoxide (co) when inhaled mixes with haemoglobin to become a dangerous compound when it reaches the heart.