Carbon monoxide detectors now mandatory

©DR

In an effort to improve the safety of residents of homes connected to the gas distribution network, the Prince’s Government has declared mandatory the installation of carbon monoxide (CO) detectors in such homes as of 22 July 2023 (Ministerial Decree No. 2023-416 of 11 July 2023, amending Ministerial Decree No. 2018-1079 of 21 November 2018 on regulations relating to the general principles of safety from the risk of fire and panic in buildings, amended).

The detector must be able to broadcast an audible local alarm intended to warn the occupants of an abnormal rise in the level of CO in the dwelling. In addition to this alarm, information may be simultaneously emitted on one or more connected devices such as a smartphone or tablet.

The measure is aimed at enabling the early detection of this odourless and colourless toxic gas, which can cause serious poisoning.

To ensure that the carbon monoxide detector works perfectly, several conditions must be met when it is installed: it must be in the same room as the gas source, one to three metres from the fuel-burning equipment. It can be installed on a wall or a ceiling:

o a detector installed on a ceiling must be free of any obstacle;
o a detector on a wall must be installed higher than the doors and windows. It must be located at least 15 centimetres from the ceiling.

Manufacturer recommendations for installation and use must be followed. In case of doubt, a professional should be consulted.

Simple gestures such as airing homes daily and the correct annual maintenance of boilers, heating and other equipment connected to the gas distribution network can help reduce risk.

For more information on precautions and what to do in the event of poisoning, consult the “Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning ” information sheet on the MonServicePublic website https://monservicepublic.gouv.mc/thematiques/securite-et-prevention/