Pilot In-Vehicle Carbon Monoxide Detector Study

Abstract

This study addresses the critical issue of carbon monoxide (CO) exposure in truck cabins, particularly in vehicles used for work zones. The research explores the levels of CO within these confined environments, with the objective of identifying factors that could contribute to increased CO levels. Two Truck Mounted Attenuators equipped with CO sensors and data acquisition systems were monitored under real-world operational conditions from July to December 2023. The study shows that average in-cabin CO levels across the two vehicles were generally low, 1.22 ppm in Truck 1 and 1.61 ppm in Truck 2. There were occasional spikes, with levels reaching 10.05 ppm in Truck 1 and 8.59 ppm in Truck 2. These peaks occur during specific operational scenarios, such as prolonged idling, open windows, and acceleration near traffic congestion. The findings highlight the significance of both environmental factors (e.g., proximity to exhaust sources, ventilation efficiency) and operational behaviors in influencing CO exposure. The analysis showed some patterns: CO levels were lowest during motion (1.14 ppm in Truck 1, 1.43 ppm in Truck 2), attributed to improved air circulation. But when parked on the road, levels rose to 1.63 ppm and 1.98 ppm, likely from idling and nearby traffic emissions. In controlled environments, such as parking facilities, CO levels stayed consistently low. These findings support prior studies that emphasize the impact of ventilation settings and driver practices on air quality (Dirks et al., 2018; Marinello et al., 2023). The study highlights the role of vehicle maintenance and design in mitigating CO exposure. Older vehicles with compromised exhaust systems and poor ventilation settings worsen the in-cabin pollution levels. To minimize risks, real-time CO monitoring and regular maintenance are essential. Additionally, educating drivers on best practices, such as limiting idling and optimizing ventilation modes, can significantly reduce exposure. While the study provides valuable insights, it is limited by its sample size (two vehicles) and duration (39 operational days per truck), which may not capture seasonal variations or represent broader fleet conditions. Future research should include more vehicle types, longer study periods, and additional factors like weather and window positioning to provide a more complete picture. Overall, the research highlights the need for targeted interventions in truck cabin air quality management. Practical steps include upgrading ventilation systems, integrating CO detection technology, and implementing urban planning measures to cut down on traffic-related exposure. By focusing on these strategies, industry leaders can enhance driver safety and well-being while also contributing to broader public health improvements.