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Carbon monoxide load in indoor carting
Luc J M Mortelmans1, P Van Rossom, M Du Bois
1Departments of Emergency Medicine, AZ KLINA Augustijnslei 100, b2930 Brasschaat, Belgium. luc.mortelmans@klina.be
Summary
Indoor go-karting can lead to significant carbon monoxide (CO) exposure, evidenced by increased carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb) levels in drivers. Symptoms like nausea and headache are common, highlighting potential health risks in these recreational environments.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Occupational Health
- Toxicology
Background:
- Anecdotal evidence and colleague reports suggested potential carbon monoxide (CO) exposure risks in indoor go-karting arenas.
- Commonly reported symptoms include nausea, headache, and altered coordination among participants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify carbon monoxide exposure levels and carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb) increases in healthy volunteers during indoor go-karting.
- To document the prevalence of CO exposure-related symptoms in recreational go-kart drivers.
Main Methods:
- Carbon monoxide levels and carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb) were measured in 15 healthy volunteers participating in a recreational indoor go-karting event.
- Participants completed two 10-minute sessions followed by a 20-minute finale session.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in COHb levels was observed, with a mean rise of 2.06% (from 0.49% to 2.55%), representing up to a 16.5-fold increase.
- Symptom prevalence included nausea (53%), headache and altered coordination (33%), and vague abdominal pain (13%).
Conclusions:
- Indoor go-karting poses a considerable risk of carbon monoxide exposure that should not be underestimated.
- Healthcare professionals should be aware of these risks and consider CO exposure in differential diagnoses for individuals presenting with relevant symptoms after indoor go-karting.