TOSHA Issued Carbon Monoxide Safety Advisory

The agency released guidance for Tennessee workers on preventing carbon monoxide poisoning as colder weather arrives.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Forecasts

Isometric editorial illustration of an industrial ventilation louver set into a brick wall, symbolizing workplace air safety. — The Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administration issued a seasonal advisory urging workplaces to prioritize ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administration (TOSHA) has issued a seasonal safety advisory regarding the risks of carbon monoxide exposure in workplaces. The warning comes as colder temperatures prompt businesses to increase their use of fuel-burning equipment.

Why it matters

As workers close building openings to retain heat during cooler months, reduced airflow can lead to the dangerous accumulation of carbon monoxide inside enclosed spaces. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can cause severe illness or death if undetected.

Carbon monoxide is produced by burning gasoline, diesel, propane, natural gas, kerosene, or wood. Official safety recommendations include the installation of carbon monoxide monitors in all workplaces and immediate evacuation to fresh air if exposure is suspected.

The players

Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administration

TOSHA is the state agency responsible for overseeing and enforcing workplace safety regulations across Tennessee.

The details

Symptoms of exposure to the gas include headaches, dizziness, nausea, weakness, confusion, and drowsiness. Severe exposure can quickly lead to a loss of coordination, unconsciousness, and death, necessitating proper ventilation and detection measures.

October 9, 2026: TOSHA issued the seasonal carbon monoxide safety advisory.

Seasonal Patterns

This advisory follows the established pattern of seasonal safety alerts mandated under the authority of the Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Act. It aligns with historical trends of increased indoor hazard reporting as temperatures drop throughout the state.

Employers and workers should immediately install carbon monoxide monitors to detect the gas before it reaches dangerous levels. If anyone in the workplace experiences symptoms like headaches or confusion, everyone should move to fresh air instantly.

The takeaway

Recognizing the early symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure is critical for preventing workplace fatalities. Ensure that all fuel-burning equipment is well-maintained and that buildings have adequate ventilation throughout the colder months.