PARSIPPANY — Two masonry workers were hospitalized Monday morning after being exposed to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide while working in the basement of a home on Beachwood Road, according to Parsippany-Troy Hills police.
Police received a 911 call at approximately 9:53 a.m. on June 8 reporting a medical emergency at a residence on Beachwood Road. Responding officers learned that a 53-year-old worker had sought help after his 44-year-old coworker became unconscious while performing masonry work in the home’s basement.
A nearby worker, identified as John Jiron, assisted in removing the unconscious man from the basement. Once outside, the worker regained consciousness, and emergency services were contacted.
Multiple Par-Troy EMS units, Parsippany-Troy Hills Fire District 6, and the Lake Parsippany Fire Department responded to the scene. Both workers appeared lethargic and were transported to Morristown Medical Center for treatment.
A preliminary investigation determined that the men, employees of Angelo Master Masonry LLC, were using a gas-powered concrete demolition saw in the basement without adequate ventilation. Firefighters detected carbon monoxide levels exceeding 700 parts per million inside the residence. For comparison, workplace exposure limits are significantly lower, and such concentrations can quickly become life-threatening.
Emergency crews ventilated the home, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was notified of the incident.
Authorities reminded contractors and homeowners of the dangers associated with operating gasoline-powered equipment indoors or in enclosed spaces without proper ventilation, as carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can rapidly accumulate and cause serious injury or death.
