How often should CO readings be monitored for safety in roadway tunnels?

Monitoring carbon monoxide (CO) readings continuously in roadway tunnels is essential for ensuring the safety of both vehicle occupants and emergency responders. Tunnels can create environments where vehicle emissions accumulate, leading to hazardous air quality conditions. Continuous monitoring allows for real-time assessment of CO levels, enabling immediate action to be taken if concentrations exceed safe thresholds.

Since CO is a colorless, odorless gas that can be lethal at high levels, continuous monitoring systems can trigger alarms and initiate ventilation measures to dilute harmful gases quickly. This proactive approach is crucial in maintaining a safe environment for all individuals within the tunnel, especially in emergency situations where rapid response may be necessary. Regular checks, such as every 10, 20, or 30 minutes, do not provide the same degree of safety, as they could allow dangerous levels to build up before action can be taken.