OLR Bill Analysis

HB 5383

AN ACT REQUIRING CARBON MONOXIDE AND OXYGEN SENSORS ON PORTABLE ELECTRIC GENERATORS.

SUMMARY:

Beginning January 1, 2014, this bill requires portable electric generators sold, offered for sale, manufactured, or distributed in Connecticut to be equipped with sensors to measure carbon monoxide (CO) and oxygen levels in the ambient air (nearby air) and cause the generator to shut down if the (1) CO level exceeds the level established in the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Standard Number 2034 or (2) air contains less than 19. 5% of oxygen by volume. (Air normally contains approximately 21% of oxygen. )

EFFECTIVE DATE: October 1, 2012

UL STANDARD 2034

CO alarms covered by this standard must sound when the CO concentration exceeds specified levels, e. g. , 70 parts per million (ppm, 0. 007%), for one hour or more. CO concentrations above the specified level can cause symptoms ranging from a mild headache to permanent brain damage, depending on certain factors, including the length of exposure.

COMMITTEE ACTION

Public Safety and Security Committee

Joint Favorable