Working in some dangerous workplaces is challenging for the crew members, and risk of death is one of the greatest threats most of them have. Common hazardous places to work include construction, mining, and many more. Working in hazardous places requires the installation of gas detectors that sense any gas leakage and provide early warnings before it becomes a more dangerous issue.
When building a hazard-free workplace, gas detectors significantly eliminate accidents and maintain crew safety. Two common options are: fixed and personal. Which among them is suitable for building a fully operational workplace? This article will provide a head-to-head comparison to help you make the right decision for your work area.
Fixed Gas Detectors:
As the name suggests, these detectors are installed permanently in a specific area of your facility. It is installed in areas prone to catastrophic leaks; hence it can provide quick warning and alarm signs to take impulsive actions.
Common Applications of Fixed Gas Detectors:
● Gas Storage and bottling
● Plant rooms/Boiler rooms
● Process Areas
● Laboratories
● Test Facilities
Benefits of Using Fixed Gas Detectors:
● 24/7 detection capability
● Remote alarms possible
● Data can be logged for trending
●Can be setup for automatic actions (such as turning on/off the gas connection)
However, there are a few disadvantages of using fixed detectors. The biggest drawback is that its sensors only detect a gas leak within a limited area. Moreover, installing fixed gas detectors is expensive compared to their alternatives.
The biggest problem with fixed gas detectors is their need for a 24×7 power supply. These detectors can’t work without a seamless power supply. They also require regular service checks – just like a fire alarm system
Portable Gas Detectors:
Portable detectors are handy detectors owned by crew members and carried when working in confined spaces.
Common Applications of Portable Gas Detectors:
● Workers maintaining storage tanks
● Gas delivery drivers
● Large process sites
● Sewage workers
Benefits of Using Personal Gas Detector:
● Directly protects the individual
● Can be monitored remotely
● Easily deployed
● Can be integrated with each workplace employee
If you find yourself in an industry or career path where gas hazards may be an occurrence it’s strongly encouraged that you obtain Gas Monitor & Detector Training, which gives you complete knowledge about detecting different gasses and tackling them without getting affected.
Coming to personal gas detectors, the biggest advantage it serves is securing the crew members with no distance barrier. It means the crew can carry personal gas detectors anywhere they want and ensure hazardous gasses challenge their wellbeing. If hazards are found, they can take immediate action.
People working in confined spaces have more danger of gas leaks which aren’t easily detected by fixed gas detectors. Here personal gas detection equipment works as a wonder. Personal gas detectors are allotted to specific individuals who can carry them around. In case of any hazardous gases around, the gas detector shows up on the LED display with an alarm sound.
With all this helpful information you can now decide which of these two popular devices is best suited for your workplace needs, and provide access to training for yourself and others on your job site to ensure you are all best prepared for safe workplace outcomes!