The Importance of Gas Detection and Monitoring in Industrial Manufacturing and Production

Most manufacturing industries in the world, be it food production, mining, automotive, use chemicals and machinery that can produce dangerous level of poisonous gases. The most common types of toxic gases found in modern industrialized work places include: ammonia, methane, hydrogen sulfide, chlorine, carbon monoxide and dioxide. Some gases are more apparent in their presence by their pungent smell, but some are odorless and tasteless, making them particularly hazardous. In some instances, gas detection is relatively simple procedure, but in others it may be more difficult to control. There are many factors that companies should consider when deciding on the proper gas monitoring system. Gas detectors are especially necessary in areas where fresh air is limited and where additional danger situations are present. In a power generation facility, be it coal, natural gas, oil, nuclear, it’s crucial that proper gas detection and monitoring controls are put into place protecting both humans and expensive work equipment. While these lethal gases are used for the betterment of society, they also pose a serious threat to health and work environment when a high enough concentration is present.

Chlorine is a good example of how a toxic gas is use to help keep the current standard of living in today’s society.Chlorine is commonly used for disinfecting waste water in the sewage sanitation process and as a bleaching agent during the production of paper and cloth. Chlorine is also used in countless cleaning products, household bleach, pesticides, polymers, synthetic rubbers, and refrigerants. While Chlorine does not combust easily, combined with other common substances it becomes extremely explosive. Another example is carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is produced combustion engines and the other fuels including wood, coal, charcoal, oil, propane, natural gas, etc. Since CO is a tasteless, odorless gas, a good risk management plan must include continuous gas monitoring system.

Gas detection, monitoring and control system can be installed into a new or existing industrialized facility that generates extensive carbon monoxide. To provide sufficient early warning detection, multiple gas sensors are strategically placed throughout the work location or near operating equipment. Advanced gas monitoring systems are capable of triggering audible and visual alarms to alert personnel. Gas detection controls are smarter than ever before and can be programmable to execute the most complex processes. For instance, if a methane leak is detected in a natural gas power plant, within seconds, a control system can alert the workers, shut down production equipment, turn on ventilation fans thus preventing a fire or explosion. The gas detection technology was able to prevent further damage and cost, all the while increasing overall safety and production.