When you work in the industrial sector, you need to check regularly for gas leaks. Vapors from spilled gases or solvents, when they have risen above the LEL (Lower Explosive Limit) in the atmosphere, will produce an explosion, which can cause massive damage to property and injure, or fatally wound, workers. An LEL detection system will help you find out if there is a safe range of flammable gas in the air in your work environment. Here are 4 reasons why this type of gas leak detection equipment is important in the workplace.
Early Detection of Leaks
The most important reason to invest in LEL detection equipment for gas leaks is to keep the workplace safe. Flammable gases and vapors, when left undetected, are extremely dangerous. If the level of gas or vapors in the air rises enough, it can create a devastating explosion. An explosion from a gas or vapor leak can cause major damage to property and severe, or even fatal, injuries to employees. LEL systems are the first step in leak detection at your worksite. They will set off the first of several alarms when gas or vapor levels reach above 10% lower explosion limits. This initial alarm will help you take action before the leak becomes too dangerous. You can make sure all employees are evacuated and all automatic processes (shutting off gas valves, turning on ventilation fans, activating additional audible and visual alarms, etc.) are working properly.
Air Duct Monitoring
Several industries, including semiconductor plants, use highly toxic and flammable gases in manufacturing processes. Usually, gas cabinets, valve manifold boxes, and fabrication tools receive heavy ventilation via ducts that drive air away from these devices. An LEL gas leak detector with gas monitoring properties can monitor the exhaust ducts. You will get an alert of a leak in the ducts before any gas or vapors have a chance to enter any work spaces and create health issues for employees.
Oxygen Detection
The level of oxygen in fresh air is around 21% Volume. In the work space, especially underground environments, Oxygen can be displaced by gases or consumed by chemical or biological processes. If oxygen levels drop below 19.5%, employees can get dizzy or pass out. And extremely low oxygen levels can cause brain damage or death. An LEL systems with oxygen monitor is one of the best gas leak detection equipment you can invest in. they provide an early warning when the concentration of oxygen has been reduced in the workplace. Early detection ensures evacuation of employees until the issue can be resolved.
Toxic Gas Monitoring
Toxic gases, like H2S (Hydrogen sulfide) and carbon monoxide, are used in (or generated by) numerous manufacturing processes in the industrial sector. LEL gas detectors with toxic gas monitors will help keep toxic gases within the federally mandated safe range. This equipment will sound an alarm when toxic gases exceed the appropriate level, giving you and all employees the chance to take action before anyone gets hurt and any property is damaged.
DOD Technologies wants you to understand why using an LEL gas detector is essential for your industrial work environment. Contact us via email at solutions@dodtec.com or call us at 815-680-6086 for more information.