The increase in temperatures has led to drivers and workers Choose to rest during your breaks or even for a long time inside your vehicles to take advantage of the air conditioning.
However, in the long run this practice can cause health problems for both the individual and the car, according to experts.
In recent days it was evident that some people chose to sleep inside their air-conditioned cars during work breaks, especially taxi drivers, and there were also those who did so while maintenance work was being carried out or accidental damage had occurred in their sectors.
Investigating main avenues and exteriors of commercial premises, passers-by were asked if had These practices have been carried out and the response of several was affirmative, including platform drivers and transporters who have remained inside their vehicles during waiting periods, especially during the hottest hours.
Some indicated that they use air conditioning as an immediate measure against weather conditions, although they recognize that rest in these conditions is not always adequate.
Luis Andrade, a driver who offers taxi service through an application, indicated that he usually sleeps inside the vehicle between shifts, because there are not always clients.
“Sometimes you have to stop for an hour or two, and with this heat you can’t be outside. You turn on the air and fall asleep, but then you feel the confinement,” he said.
Mechanical and poisoning risks
From the mechanical field, Óscar López, LM Multimarcas technician, explained that keeping the vehicle on for long periods without moving involves risks for both the person and the operation of the vehicle.
He noted that the system can recirculate internal air, which promotes the accumulation of gases.
“The exhaust pipe bounces carbon monoxide and that gas can enter the cabin if there are leaks or if the system is not well sealed, which causes slow poisoning while the person sleeps inside,” he said.
The specialist added that fuel consumption increases when the vehicle remains on for hours.
He indicated that, in addition to the expense, wear is generated in the engine that is not usually considered by drivers.
“Normally, wear is measured by mileage, but the time that the car is on without running is not taken into account. From a few 130-150 hours accumulated in these conditions, you can already notice deterioration of the vehicle,” he explained.
López also warned that the lack of maintenance in the air conditioning system and the exhaust pipe increases the risk of gases entering the interior of the vehicle. He noted that hatches, ducts and seals must be kept in good condition to avoid leaks, especially in vehicles with several years of use or that have had structural repairs.
Impact on health due to lack of ventilation
In the field of health, general practitioner Ángelo Neira explained that staying asleep inside a vehicle with the air conditioning on implies risks associated with ventilation and air quality.
He indicated that, although there is not an immediate effect in all cases, the accumulation of carbon monoxide In closed spaces it can cause complications. “If there is not good ventilation, there is a risk of accumulation of this gas, which can cause discomfort and, in more serious cases, poisoning,” he noted.
The doctor explained that the air conditioning works with air recirculation, which generates a dry environment that can affect the respiratory tract. He explained that this condition can cause irritation in the nose, throat and ears, as well as aggravate pre-existing conditions.
“Symptoms such as sore throat, nasal congestion or irritation may occur, especially if it is a repetitive practice,” he indicated.
He added that, in completely closed spaces, such as garages or carports, the risk increases due to the accumulation of gases. “There may be headache, dizziness, nausea and, in more severe situations, the person may lose consciousness. awareness due to lack of oxygen”he explained.
The experiences collected show this practice in different parts of the city, especially during extended shifts or night shifts.
José Cedeño, a raw material transporter, pointed out that on several occasions he has slept inside his vehicle. “You leave tired and there is nowhere to lie down. Sometimes you have to stay in the car with the air, but it is not a complete rest. What is true is that I don’t do it all night; it is simply a few hours to then get home safely,” he said.
The recommendations included carrying out periodic maintenance to the air conditioning system, check the condition of the exhaust pipe, avoid staying overnight with the engine running and provide ventilation by opening windows or leaving the vehicle periodically. (YO)
