Carbon Monoxide Protection

Detecting and preventing carbon monoxide leaks saves lives. Safety standards for alarms, detection systems, and CO-producing appliances and equipment help make the world safer for you.

By the Numbers

Number of U.S. adults who report that they have no means of detecting CO leaks in their homes.


Number of Americans who do not believe that they or their households are at risk of CO exposure.


Number of generator owners who don’t realize portable generators are a potential source of CO.


Number of U.S. travelers who do not worry about CO exposure in hotels and rental properties because they assume CO alarms are installed.


Keep reading to explore examples of the power of prevention from people just like you.

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“I’m very proud to have joined the experts on the front lines in the fight against CO poisoning, and deeply compelled to address this issue after speaking with those who have lost loved ones,” Haithcock said. “ULSE is working to help protect consumers from CO poisoning with standards for portable generators and carbon monoxide alarms, and we rely on the input and expertise of these individuals to help in the ongoing development of these standards.”

Diane Haithcock

Director of Standards Programs,

UL Standards & Engagement

  • A portable electric generator with a blue top sits on a paved surface outdoors, connected by a power cord, with a house and greenery visible in the background.

    Hurricane Season Brings Renewed Generator Risks But CO Alarms Can Save Lives

    Prepare wisely for storm season—portable generators pose hidden carbon monoxide dangers, but CO alarms and standards can save lives.

  • Close-up of hands replacing a rectangular 9-volt battery in a smoke detector mounted on a white ceiling.

    Your State May Not Require Life-Saving Carbon Monoxide Protection. Why Not?

    Discover why many states still don’t require carbon monoxide detectors and how gaps in regulation leave thousands at risk each…

  • Map of the United States shaded by state, showing varying levels of risk readiness. Darker green indicates higher risk readiness, while lighter green shows lower readiness. A color key is included at the bottom.

    U.S. State CO Risk Assessment Report

    ULSE has developed the CO Risk Assessment to evaluate each U.S. state’s code and regulatory efforts, health outcomes, and public awareness.

UL 2201, Carbon Monoxide (CO) Emission Rate of Portable Generators

A woman with her hair in a bun is standing on the floor, reaching up to install or check a smoke detector on a ceiling inside a home.

UL 2034, Single and Multiple Station Carbon Monoxide Alarms

ANSI/CAN/UL 1008M, Transfer Switch Equipment, Meter-Mounted

Five people sit around a conference table with laptops, engaged in discussion. Large windows and a plant are in the background, giving the room a bright, modern atmosphere.

Technical Committees

Each TC is a diverse group of experts representing a broad range of perspectives and interests, including consumers, manufacturers, regulators, supply chain professionals, and more. 

As a TC member, you will review proposals for new or revised standards and work collaboratively to achieve consensus through balloting in our transparent process.

Stakeholders

Stakeholders can submit, review, and comment on proposals for new standards or revisions to existing standards. While these individuals cannot vote, the TC considers their input during the standards voting process. Since standards affect everyone, all are welcome to participate as stakeholders. Register online through our Collaborative Standards Development System, CSDS.