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Standards Matter
June 17, 2021

Standards for Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Helping Keep Families Alert in Emergency Situations

Why it matters

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a highly poisonous gas that is undetectable by humans because it is colorless, odorless and tasteless. In high enough concentrations, CO can harm or kill a person within minutes. It is produced by burning fuel in everyday items such as cars and small engines, stoves, lanterns, grills, fireplaces, gas ranges and furnaces.1  Because of the risk CO presents, carbon monoxide alarms are essential for keeping homes and families safe.

UL 2034, the Standard for Single and Multiple Station Carbon Monoxide Alarms, provides requirements for CO detectors to help ensure proper functioning in the event of a CO emergency.

What we're doing

Our Standard, UL 2034, provides requirements for carbon monoxide alarms used in living spaces, including recreational vehicles, mobile homes, and recreational boats with enclosed accommodation spaces and cockpit areas. Carbon monoxide alarms covered by these requirements are intended to respond to the presence of carbon monoxide from sources such as exhaust from internal-combustion engines, fuel-fired appliances and fireplaces. The alarms are intended to report at carbon monoxide levels below those that cause a loss of ability to react to the dangers of carbon monoxide exposure.

How you can help

Our Standards are developed through a consensus-based process, which integrates scientific and testing expertise with input from our Technical Committee (TC) members and stakeholders. TC members represent a variety of interests, including industry, academia, government, retail and manufacturing. If you are involved in the design, manufacture, sale or installation of carbon monoxide alarms, and you would like to help improve safety in your industry, please take a moment to learn how you can get involved.