Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can pose serious risks when released into enclosed spaces. While many people associate carbon monoxide poisoning with high-level exposure—such as sudden malfunctions of appliances or heaters—low-level CO poisoning can also have severe, long-term health consequences. Defective products like water heaters, furnaces, and stoves may release small amounts of CO over time without being detected. At Harman Law Firm, with offices in Atlanta and Augusta, GA, we help victims hold manufacturers accountable for injuries caused by defective products emitting harmful CO levels.
How Low-Level Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Occurs
Carbon monoxide is produced whenever fuel is burned, including in vehicles, fireplaces, and household appliances. If these appliances are malfunctioning or improperly ventilated, small amounts of CO can leak into the air. Over time, prolonged exposure to low levels of CO can cause serious health issues, even though symptoms may be subtle or misdiagnosed at first.
Common defective product scenarios include:
- Faulty furnaces that release CO due to cracked heat exchangers
- Water heaters or stoves with poor ventilation systems
- Vehicles with leaking exhaust systems
Since CO has no odor or color, people often don’t realize they are being exposed until symptoms worsen.
Symptoms of Low-Level Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Low-level exposure to carbon monoxide can cause chronic health problems that develop over time. Symptoms may include:
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weakness and fatigue
- Dizziness and confusion
- Chest pain
If left untreated, long-term exposure can lead to heart damage, memory loss, and permanent brain damage. These symptoms are often mistaken for other conditions like the flu or chronic fatigue, making early detection challenging.
Defective Products and Manufacturer Liability
Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring that their products are safe and properly tested to prevent the release of hazardous substances like carbon monoxide. When a product defect causes CO poisoning, the manufacturer may be held legally liable for injuries.
Product defects that can lead to CO exposure include:
- Design flaws that prevent proper ventilation
- Manufacturing errors that result in leaks or malfunctions
- Failure to warn consumers of risks related to improper use
If you or a family member has experienced carbon monoxide poisoning due to a defective product, you may have a right to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and long-term health impacts.
At Harman Law Firm, we have extensive experience representing victims of carbon monoxide poisoning in Atlanta, Augusta, and throughout Georgia. Our team is dedicated to holding manufacturers accountable for defective products that harm consumers. We will fight to secure the compensation you need to recover and protect your family’s future.
Contact Harman Law Firm Today
If you or a loved one has suffered from low-level carbon monoxide poisoning, don’t wait to seek legal advice. Contact Harman Law Firm at our office in Atlanta or Augusta to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you pursue justice and compensation. We are here to support you every step of the way.
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