CARBON MONOXIDE IN THE WORKPLACE
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365-BSA-01-IMOT © 2024, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | WSPS.CA
Table 5: Comparison of Dilution and Local Exhaust Ventilation
DILUTION VENTILATION
Advantages:
1. Low equipment and installation costs.
2. Effective control for small amounts of low and
medium toxicity solvents.
3. Effective control for flammable and
combustible gases and vapours.
4. Requires little maintenance.
Disadvantages:
1. Does not eliminate exposure to contaminated air.
2. Should not be used for high toxicity gases and
vapours.
3. Should not be used for large amounts of any
gases or vapours.
4. Ineffective for particulates (dusts, metal
particles, fumes).
5. Requires large volumes of heated or cooled
make up air.
6. Not effective for handling surges of gases or
vapours or irregular emissions.
7. People working close to contaminants can still
have large exposures.
LOCAL EXHAUST VENTILATION
Advantages:
1. Captures contaminants at source and removes
them from the workplace.
2. Can handle all types of contaminants including
dusts and fumes.
3. Requires small amounts of make up air since
it exhausts low volumes of air.
4. Low ongoing energy costs because of low
amounts of make up air.
5. Only alternative for highly toxic airborne
materials.
Disadvantages:
1. System design and installation can be
expensive.
2. Requires regular cleaning, inspection and
maintenance.
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