Tunnels, tanks, ductwork, and pipelines all are defined by OSHA as confined spaces. If the atmosphere is unsafe in these spaces, fatalities can result. To ensure your safety and that of your workers, monitor the atmospheric hazards continuously with gas detectors.
Gas detector products help protect workers by monitoring their exposure to toxic and combustible gases. A variety of gas detector products are available: gas detection badges, gas detection tubes, single-gas and multi-gas detectors, and photo-ionization detectors (PIDs).
Single- and multi-gas detectors: Either worn by a worker or used as a handheld device, the compact single- and multi-gas detectors display immediate, continuous readings of gas concentrations. Visible and/or audible alarms alert users to high toxic gas concentrations or low oxygen levels. Single- and multi-gas monitors are typically higher in price than badges or tubes but also offer longer life spans. Users will need to learn how to operate these units, and they do require calibration.
Single-gas detectors target a predetermined gas only, such as carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S) or oxygen. This device delivers precision without the flexibility of the multi-gas model. The single-gas monitor is most efficient when the potential gas is limited to one area. Advanced versions calculate for Short-Term Exposure Limit (STEL) and TWA.
Multi-gas detectors are a better choice for sensing several gases at once and typically include a sensor for combustibles. Multi-gas detectors are used in confined spaces where gas concentrations build quickly, as well as for hazmat response, search-and-rescue missions, post-inspection fire safety and more. Some units have data logging capabilities for later download to a computer for record-keeping purposes.
Photo-ionization detectors (PID): These detectors take real-time readings of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous gases or vapors in parts per million (ppm), making them ideal for confined spaces (especially industrial settings) in which low levels of VOCs may be present. Their sensitivity to a broadband of VOCs eliminates the need for multiple sensors. Depending on the unit, samples can be drawn from an extended range (horizontally or vertically) allowing employees to monitor air quality from a distance. Other options may include multimode operation (for example, survey mode or hygiene mode) and data logging features.
Because PIDs provide immediate VOC readings, they eliminate the time and cost involved in sending results to a laboratory for analysis. Although PIDs detect multiple airborne hazards, they should be calibrated using the targeted gas for the most accurate results.
Combinations with PID: Some devices combine the technologies above. For example, the multi-gas monitor with PID offers the advantages of both types of detectors. For combination units, functionality and resourcefulness are significantly increased and so is the cost of purchasing these units.
Need help selecting a gas monitor? Call our product specialists at 1-800-323-4340.
We’ve come a long way since the 19th and early 20th centuries. Now gas detection methods are much more precise – and much less harmful to animals. Thanks so much!