Released on January 13, 2011
Saskatchewan's health regions are taking steps to address the risk of accidental exposure to carbon monoxide (CO) fumes through a systemic installation of detectors in health facilities.
In response to a carbon monoxide build-up incident during the Christmas holidays that was a factor in the deaths of two Humboldt long-term care facility residents, the Ministry of Health has directed the province's health regions to implement preventive safety measures.
"On behalf of everyone in the health care system, I want to express our sympathies for the employees, residents, and their families affected by the carbon monoxide leak at St. Mary's Villa," Health Minister Don McMorris said. "The ministry has directed health regions to immediately develop plans for the appropriate installation of carbon monoxide detectors in every health facility in the province. We want to ensure they have the procedures and equipment in place to prevent and detect unsafe exposure to this deadly gas."
Health region facility managers are in the process of buying and installing standard residential carbon monoxide detectors. They will also seek expert advice about the type, number, location, and integration of CO monitors needed in their buildings, and develop longer-term plans to ensure that users of the facilities can be protected from exposure to accumulations of the colourless, odourless gas.
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For more information, contact:
Joan Petrie
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083