How to prevent carbon monoxide leaks in ice rinks
Though ice skating provides joy, connection, and fitness in many communities, unexpected dangers lurk in rinks. Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is an unfortunate possibility due to a few factors. Fortunately, however, prevention of potentially deadly accidents is possible without major facility upgrades, costs, or labor.
Maintaining equipment and heating and cooling systems, monitoring and controlling exhaust from outside vehicles, providing proper training and procedures for staff and owners, and conducting regular air-quality monitoring can keep ice rink operations smooth and safe.
Causes Of CO Poisoning In Ice Rinks
In rinks, CO can seep into the airflow in a few ways. First, there’s equipment, such as ice resurfacers and ice edgers, that emits gas. Other ice-rink maintenance equipment that may emit CO includes forklifts, water pumps, and auxiliary generators. Improper maintenance, installation, or upkeep of heating vent and air conditioning (HVAC) systems or hot-water heaters can also result in dangerous levels of CO. Finally, vehicles parked near the air intakes at ice rinks may cause unsafe levels of CO pumping into a facility.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), symptoms of CO poisoning include “headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. CO symptoms are often described as ‘flu-like.’” Anecdotally, Kevin McCormack, treasurer of the Ice Sports Industry (ISI) board and owner of Emerald Sports Management, says people don’t always experience symptoms in the building. He says, “The players leave and go home and develop symptoms like headaches, nausea, vomiting. Once you get into fresh air, it’s okay unless you’ve been seriously exposed.” In the case of potential exposure in an ice rink, evacuate the building and have exposed individuals examined by a healthcare professional. Test the air and do not resume operations until levels are back to normal.
If untreated, CO poisoning can lead to hospitalization or death. Since CO is an odorless gas, individuals may not realize they’re experiencing CO poisoning unless they seek treatment, or if levels are measured.
Along with CO, ice rinks also need to be concerned about nitrogen dioxide levels in the air supply. Like carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide occurs as a result of burning fuel, and improper ventilation can cause health problems. See Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines and warnings regarding nitrogen. Nitrogen poisoning is different from carbon monoxide poisoning in that nitrogen can worsen respiratory illnesses such as asthma. It’s also bad for the environment.
CO Poisoning Prevention
Fortunately, diligence in facilities can prevent CO poisoning. McCormack says that, most of the time, taking precautions is “common sense.” When designing a new rink, keep carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide poisoning in mind and design with an eye for safe ventilation.
Regarding equipment, tune it up regularly according to manufacturer guidelines. Many companies provide emissions tests like those administered for cars. McCormack says, unless the manufacturer says otherwise, tune up or check emissions of equipment every six months and no less than once a year. Going one step further, he suggests switching to battery-operated equipment. While it is an investment to change out tools, he says it’s “worth it” for the peace of mind. In the long run, electric equipment can be less expensive, and it’s better for the environment, as well as the health of staff and customers. If staying with gas-powered equipment, replace it when it no longer complies with EPA standards, or switch to a more efficient fuel and use available pollution-control devices.
Similar to dealing with gas-powered equipment, follow manufacturer recommendations for HVAC and hot-water heater systems. McCormack suggests technicians look at these areas semi-annually. While it is a good idea to use plug-in CO detectors in areas containing an HVAC or hot-water system, it shouldn’t be the only way to monitor levels. Bringing in an outside professional ensures equipment works properly and the rink remains safe. It also potentially protects operators in the case of an inquiry. Keeping logs of technician visits ensures leaders conduct due diligence and helps hold everyone accountable.
McCormack says, “Know where your air intakes are on your building.” Make sure buses or other equipment are never parked near these locations. In designs, make sure the hot-water heater isn’t positioned near an air intake. It may seem like common sense not to let buses idle, but make sure parking is clearly marked and that staff is properly trained on vehicle procedures.
The most important prevention tool, however, is regular air-quality testing. McCormack says there are handheld devices that staff can use for testing. Use these once a week and test at different times of the day. Test immediately after ice resurfacing and later in the day, and create a log to track results. McCormack says another option is to install specialized sensors in HVAC equipment. Most manufacturers have an automatic or manual option. He “highly recommends” automated testing so teams aren’t “relying on human intervention.” As simple as it is to have someone “push a button” to check the air, it’s always better to make sure there is no room for human error.
Speaking of human intervention, proper education and training are vital components of CO-poisoning prevention. The EPA has a robust overview of procedures and, regarding staffing, the agency says operators should train staff and “establish procedures for responding to indoor air complaints and emergencies.” Always call 911 or seek medical attention when there’s potentially an air supply-based incident, and clear the area. The EPA notes, “Exhaust of contaminants and supply of fresh outdoor air are necessary to maintain good air quality in ice arenas. Provide continuous ventilation whenever the rink is occupied,” even when it’s for staff only or a small number of people.
CO Guidelines
While only three states have legislation with official guidelines on CO in ice rinks, every rink should follow best practices. McCormack says, “The goal is you want the rink to be safe. We think testing is good. We think having standards is good and enforcing those standards.” He suggests following the Minnesota Department of Health laws regarding CO since they are the most restrictive and, therefore, the safest.
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers has published a set of guidelines and standards that include technical guidelines regarding ventilation and dilution of air in ice rinks. The International Ice Hockey Federation’s Ice Arena Guide includes the suggestion of two air intakes—one in public areas and one in the rink—among other considerations.
While every state may not have laws enforcing proper ventilation in ice rinks, preventing exposure is vital. Holding rinks to the highest safety standards ensures everyone can enjoy ice sports and spend time together as a community.