The COVID-19 pandemic has focused greater attention on indoor air quality and the critical role HVAC systems play in preventing the spread of airborne contaminants and illnesses. But even as new threats to occupant health have arisen, maintenance and engineering managers still must contend with age-old threats, such as carbon monoxide.
Four people became suddenly ill recently after a reported carbon monoxide leak at an LAX terminal, according to ABC7. A hazardous materials team responded to the baggage area at Terminal 8 to investigate the issue, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. Authorities said three people were in mild distress, and a fourth person was in grave condition.
The source of the leak is believed to be a utility room in the area, according to the LAFD. The four individuals were all independent contract workers, three men and a woman, who were in or near the room at the time. Authorities added a popping sound was heard shortly before the leak.
One of the workers, a man in his 50s, was found without a pulse inside the room. Paramedics performed CPR after he went into cardiac arrest, and he was taken to the hospital in critical condition.
Officials said some 100 people were cleared from Terminal 8 during the investigation and were sent to Terminal 7 for screening.
Dan Hounsell is senior editor of the facilities market. He has more than 25 years of experience writing about facilities maintenance, engineering and management.
