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Many gas detection systems on the market may appear identical, but a closer look at their features and functionality reveals major differences regarding the capabilities and potential benefits of these products. Likewise, individual applications are also unique in terms of design, needs and processes.
The selection steps
1. Determine the risks
Before you begin to choose gas detection equipment, a risk assessment should be carried out. Any company employing staff has an obligation to carry out an assessment risks to identify potential dangers, including those linked to gases, vapors or oxygen deficiency. If gas hazards are identified, gas detection is a means of risk reduction.
2 . Set priority #1
Based on processes implemented and gases detected, remote or off-site alarm notifications, and recording or recording of event data, may be required for health and safety management reporting. Regulatory compliance criteria or special conditions imposed by insurers may be another factor causing the need for advanced reporting functions.
• The gas to be detected and the origin of their potential emission
• The location and environmental conditions of use of the detection system
• Ease of use for operators and maintenance personnel</p >
4. Identify the gases to be detected and the origin of their potential emission
The gases to be detected must be identified through a risk assessment study. Experienced manufacturers of gas detection equipment and their authorized distributors are often able to assist with this process based on their experience gained in similar applications. However, it is important to remember that the Identifying all potential hazards is the responsibility of the end user.
It is also essential to identify potential sources of gas leaks, in order to determine the number and location of sensors required for a fixed gas detection system.
5. Environmental conditions to take into account
6. Understanding product features >
Additional product features are another area to consider. Certain features, such as cabling configuration, are of great importance, especially when integrating into a existing application. Certain communication protocols, such as HART®, Lonworks or Modbus® protocols, are also required if the equipment is to be integrated into a separate security system.
It is also necessary to take into account the needs in terms of local display on transmitters and local configuration of units; in addition, the gas display can be useful.
Selecting the right gas detection solution involves the following steps:
- Identify risks
- Determine first priority
- Ask the right questions
- Identify gases and 'origin
- Take the environment into account
- Understand the product features
Measure ease of use for operators and maintenance personnel
Routine maintenance is another important consideration. Some gases and vapors can be detected with a number of different detection technologies, e.g. Hydrocarbon gases with catalytic beads or non-dispersive infrared NDIR. Catalytic beads do not provide safe operation and therefore may require a high frequency of routine maintenance, however NDIR based solutions tend to have a higher initial purchase price, but may require less routine maintenance . Internal resources to undertake such routine maintenance must be identified and in the absence of such a resource, budgeting for third party maintenance is an important factor in selecting the right equipment
