Carbon monoxide poisoning

The product liability team at Leigh Day represents a number of families who believe that their loved ones died following exposure to the gas from recalled kitchen appliances such as cookers and grills. Cases of CO poisoning have also been reported from gas fires, water heaters, and open fires.

The team represents families during the inquest process and investigates claims for compensation. 

What are the main causes of carbon monoxide poisoning?

Carbon monoxide is formed when fuels such as gas, coal, wood and oil are not completely burnt. Because CO cannot be seen, smelt or tasted it is all but impossible to detect the gas without a CO detector., It is usually not until people start to experience the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning that they may realise they are being poisoned. Often it can be too late.

What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?

As carbon monoxide enters the bloodstream it prevents the take up of oxygen, damaging cells, tissues and blood vessels. The symptoms produced by carbon monoxide poisoning can include:

• Flu-like symptoms such as nausea, headaches and dizziness
• Problems with breathing
• Vomiting and abdominal pain
• Irritability, confusion and weakness
• Unconsciousness

Signs that carbon monoxide is present can include:

• Orange or yellow cooker flames rather than blue
• Signs of soot or yellow-brown staining near kitchen or heating appliances
• Unreliable pilot lights on boilers that blow out frequently
• Heavy condensation inside windows

It is possible to bring a carbon monoxide poisoning compensation claim in some circumstances if you or a loved one has suffered an injury such as brain damage, or have been left with serious long-term health problems following exposure to carbon monoxide because of a defective product or someone else’s negligence.

To speak to a member of the product liability team please contact Jill Paterson or Thomas Jervis now on 020 7650 1219 for a free and confidential consultation, or fill in our enquiry form and a member of the team will get back to you shortly.

You may be able to claim for any pain caused by your injury, for lost earnings if you are unable to go to work because of carbon monoxide poisoning, for continuing problems with your health, and for the cost of any repairs that have to be made to your accommodation or workplace.