Current Submarine Carbon Monoxide and Estimated Carboxyhemoglobin Levels and Interpretation of their Possible Effects on Mental Performance and Health Risk
Abstract
Current carbon monoxide (CO) levels aboard nuclear powered submarines during patrol were examined by surveying 8 Atlantic fleet submarines (9 patrols) . From hourly CO values obtained from the atmosphere control log, the following values were computed: patrol average = 7 parts per million (ppm); range = 4-10 ppm; average daily maximum value = 9 ppm; mean of maximum recorded values = 13 ppm. The hourly CO values were also entered into an equation developed to estimate percent carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) in the blood of non-smokers. The mean estimated COHb for the 9 patrols was 1.53%, with fluctuations averaging + or - . 25% and peaking during early morning hours. The mean daily maximum value was 1. 71%, and the mean maximum value recorded was 2.23%. An analysis of the pertinent animal and human literature indicates that present CO levels and the estimated levels of COHb in the blood of non-smokers are below those concentrations which have definitely been shown to have deleterious effects on both mental performance and physical health. Conclusions drawn from these observations must be tempered with the following facts: Little is known about the additive, synergistic, or antagonistic effects of CO with agents such as other gaseous contaminants and common drugs. This survey was limited to 8 ships. Possible effects of low CO levels on smokers was not considered, nor were the possible long-term effects of repeated chronic exposures.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 27, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA063274
Entities
People
- Kenneth R. Bondi
Organizations
- Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory