Here are 12 symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning all truck drivers should know

Truckers are at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, so it’s important to know the warning signs of this potentially deadly illness.

Earlier this month, a Washington State workplace safety group shared a report on the January 2023 death of a semi truck driver from carbon monoxide poisoning believed to have been caused by a single-burner butane cooking stove found in his truck.

Other ways that truckers can be exposed to carbon monoxide poisoning include malfunctions within the truck’s exhaust system or idling for long periods of time in a space without proper ventilation.

The workplace safety group’s report highlights the importance of truckers knowing the common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning so that they can better protect themselves. Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, so often the physical symptoms are the first clue that a person has been exposed.

Know The Physical Symptoms Of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

1. Flu-like symptoms
2. Confusion
3. Nausea
4. Shortness of breath
5. Chest pain
6. Fainting
7. Hallucinations
8. Abdominal pain
9. Visual changes
10. Difficulty walking
11. Drowsiness
12. Headache

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, exit the truck and seek medical care immediately. 

One of the best ways for truckers to protect themselves is to install a battery-powered carbon monoxide detector designed for use in vehicles.