Establishing the Need for Gas Detection Systems in your Workplace

Industrial workplaces are likely to come across one or more hazardous or toxic gases. Combustible gases such as methane are highly dangerous because they can cause large and fatal explosions when ignited if there is the right (or wrong, depending on how you look at it!) amount of oxygen present. In confined spaces it can also cause suffocation, as methane drives out oxygen. Other problem areas when working in industry are carbon monoxide (which poisons the cardiovascular system), hydrogen sulphide (attacking the central and nervous systems), oxygen deficiency or enrichment, the latter contributing to the methane explosions mentioned above.

Fixed and portable gas detection systems can monitor the amount of harmful gases in the area and alert employees when they need to get out or when systems and processes need to be shut down. A hazard assessment of your site or workplace can determine what gases may be present and so what kind of gas monitoring equipment or detectors are required. Different equipment works with different kinds of gases, and some gas monitoring equipment can detect more than one type of gas. A hazard assessment will also be able to advise on whether fixed or portable detection equipment is best, or a combination of both. As a general rule, fixed equipment is normally used for large, enclosed areas, and portable equipment is worn attached to clothing or a belt or harness for confined spaces, such as in mining. Mining will also require the use of detectors for combustible gas, while a toxic gas monitor would be used in a steel mill.

You must also consider the environment your equipment will be used in. If it is fixed outside, it will have to cope with harsh weather conditions. All equipment needs to be checked regularly and updated when necessary to always ensure optimum safety for your site and your employees.

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