Nine Hospitalised After Carbon Monoxide Exposure in Hobart

The Royal Hobart Hospital in the CBD of Tasmania's capital city, Hobart, on Tuesday, November 16, 2020. AAP Image/Chris Crerar

Nine individuals were rushed to the Royal Hobart Hospital on Jan. 9 following a hazardous material incident in the Glenorchy suburb of Hobart.

A day later, two patients remain in stable condition, while the remaining seven have been discharged, the Health Department confirmed to The Epoch Times.

Tasmania Police reported that the incident occurred when several people inside a building were exposed to carbon monoxide, an odourless and colourless gas that can be fatal in high concentrations.

Authorities revealed that the exposure was caused by inadequate ventilation while cutting concrete, which led to the buildup of petrol fumes.

A spokesperson for the Health Department confirmed that all nine individuals were transported to the Royal Hobart Hospital for suspected carbon monoxide poisoning.

“All patients are receiving appropriate treatment and remain in a stable condition,” the department stated.

Recent Surge in Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Cases

This incident in Hobart is not the only incident involving carbon monoxide poisoning.

In 2024, two separate families—one in Perth and another in Sydney—were hospitalised within a week of each other after breathing in toxic fumes at home.

In both cases, the families had inadvertently inhaled deadly carbon monoxide after using charcoal burners indoors for overnight heating.

Winter Spike in Cases

Authorities have noted an increase in carbon monoxide-related incidents during the winter months, as people seek alternative heating solutions.

The gas is particularly dangerous because it cannot be detected by sight or smell.

According to NSW Health, symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, and confusion.

In severe cases, it can lead to unconsciousness, seizures, and permanent brain damage.

In 2021/2022, 230 Australians were hospitalised due to poisoning from gases such as carbon monoxide.

Call for Stricter Regulations on Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Despite the risks, carbon monoxide detectors are not universally required in Australian homes, unlike smoke alarms.

Former federal MP Sharman Stone, who campaigned for mandatory CO detectors in all new residential properties with gas appliances following a tragic case in 2010, expressed disappointment that more has not been done to prevent such poisonings.

“It is essential to raise awareness about the dangers of carbon monoxide and take steps to protect Australian families,” she said earlier.

Carbon monoxide detectors are available for purchase for approximately $50, and experts recommend installing them in homes, especially those with gas appliances or alternative heating methods.