3 Reasons to Use Gas Detection Devices?
One of the most dangerous aspects of working in an industrial setting is the possibility of poisonous gases building up. This is why using gas detection systems or devices is required in most workplaces.
Using a handheld device or larger gas detection monitoring system can allow the necessary actions to be taken when dangerous gas levels are detected. This can not only prevent an explosion from happening, but it will also help reduce the chance that people will be injured or exposed to toxic gases.
Businesses with the best gas detectors in Australia have monitors that automatically initiate actions to be taken that will help prevent the levels of gas from rising further. Some of these actions include automatically shutting off gas valves, starting ventilation fans running or setting off visual and audio alarms that alert personnel of the need to evacuate. Other times, the levels of gas need to be detected as part of controlling the manufacturing process.
The following are some of the reasons gas detection devices should be used more often.
1. Detecting Oxygen for Worker Safety
Normally, fresh air has an Oxygen level that is roughly 21% by volume. When the levels of oxygen become too low, workers can start to feel dizzy and could possibly pass out. If the oxygen level drops too low, then it can lead to severe brain damage and even death.
When working in below-ground environments, oxygen conditions can become low due to their displacement by other gases or because the oxygen is being used quickly in a small area.
Having an oxygen detection device can help prevent injuries or death by giving an early warning for reduced concentrations of oxygen. Typically, these alarms will be triggered when the level of oxygen gets below 19.5% by volume, which should give everyone the chance to evacuate the premises until the problem has been looked into and fixed properly.
2. They Detect Flammable Gases
A big concern in factories that use or manufacture flammable gases and vapours is the threat of explosion. An explosion could seriously hurt employees and cause immense property damage. Usually, gas detectors will have a first level alarm set at 10% LEL (10% of the amount needed to cause an explosion).
A good monitoring system should automatically shut off all gas sources and turn on ventilation fans to prevent the levels of gas from rising to the point where it becomes potentially flammable. With the proper levels of gas needing to be tested constantly it is important to get regular calibrations on whatever gas detection equipment that is used.
3. They Monitor Toxic Gases
Different toxic gases like CO or H2S are sometimes present in refineries, petrochemical plants, and underground parking garages. By monitoring these gases and taking the proper actions when alarms are triggered by the levels of gas becoming too high, injuries can be prevented.
In semiconductor plants, many toxic and flammable gases are used during the manufacturing process. Many of the individual areas in these plants have extensive ventilation with ducts drawing air from these areas that need duct cleaning every once in a while. Monitoring exhaust ducts can give an early alert to possible leaks before any dangerous gases can endanger workers’ health. This is why it is imperative to monitor gas levels in these industries so personnel are alerted to potentially dangerous situations right away.
Conclusion
Because many of the gases used and created in industrial settings can be exceptionally dangerous, it is important to continually monitor gas levels for safety purposes. A good monitoring device or system can help increase the safety of employees by alerting personnel to the presence of dangerous gases. This will save lives and help prevent fires from occurring.