Carbon monoxide hazard in antarctica

Abstract

Carbon monoxide poisoning on the Commonwealth Trans-Antarctic Expedition is described. The symptoms occurred mainly at 7,000-10,000 ft. (2,135-3,050 m.) and represented a combination of the characteristic effects of altitude and CO. In the British party symptoms were associated with long hours of travelling in motorized vehicles with the cabin windows closed. In the New Zealand party symptoms were associated with shorter exposures in a small caravan provided with an exhaust heater and two primus stoves for cooking. Symptoms of CO poisoning were also experienced by the T.A.E. advance party who spent the winter of 1956–7 in a crate, with three primus stoves for cooking and heating purposes. The output of CO from primus stoves was investigated, and the absorption of CO was studied in a subject using a primus stove in an Antarctic pyramid tent. The physiological effects of breathing low concentrations of CO at sea-level and at altitude are discussed. © 1959, British Medical Journal Publishing Group. All rights reserved.