Construction Worker’s Collapse Leads to Discovery of Lethal Carbon Monoxide Levels at Yale Building
A Potentially Catastrophic Situation Averted
Emergency crews responding to a collapsed construction worker outside a Yale University-owned building made a shocking discovery – dangerous levels of carbon monoxide inside. This finding prevented a potentially larger catastrophe, according to officials. Rick Fontana, New Haven’s emergency operations director, stated, “There was a disaster averted here. You could have had a lot more sick or a lot more death had this gone on for a longer period of time.”
Initial Response and Alarming Blood Test Results
Initially, emergency crews believed they were responding to a routine medical call when they transported the unconscious worker to the hospital. However, an hour-and-a-half later, the hospital informed them that the worker had extremely high levels of carbon monoxide in his bloodstream.
Discovery of Elevated Levels and Symptoms
Upon receiving the alarming blood test results, crews returned to the building and found 13 individuals with elevated carbon monoxide levels and complaining of headaches. The affected individuals were immediately hospitalized.
The Cause of the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Investigators determined that the construction workers were using a propane-fueled saw to cut concrete inside the building. Despite ventilation efforts, the fumes were not properly exiting the structure.
Hospitalized Individuals
Out of the 14 people hospitalized, nine were construction workers, and five were members of Yale Security Department, which shares the facility. The worker found lying outside the building, located a couple of blocks from Yale’s New Haven campus, was taken to Jacobi Medical Center’s hyperbaric chamber in critical condition. Another worker was also in serious condition, but his location was uncertain.
The Dangers of Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas that can be deadly when inhaled. It hinders the body’s ability to use oxygen properly and can cause harm to vital organs such as the heart and brain. In this situation, the carbon monoxide levels were 10 times the permissible limit.
Investigation and Safety Measures
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is conducting an investigation into the incident. Yale spokesperson mentioned that it took approximately 30 minutes for carbon monoxide levels in the building to reach a safe level. Adjacent areas were also checked by Yale first responders, but no gas was detected.
