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Toxic Gas Hazards: How to Stay Safe

Toxic Gas Hazards: How to Stay Safe

Posted by Claire Allcock on 20th Apr 2020

Toxic gas exposure is a huge concern for personnel working in an industrial setting, being more likely to die from toxic gas exposure than explosions from flammable gas. So what is a toxic gas, and how can you protect your workforce from exposure to it?

What is a Toxic Gas?

Toxic gas is defined as a gas that can cause damage to living tissues, impairment of the central nervous system, severe illness or, in extreme cases, death when it is ingested, inhaled, or absorbed by the skin or eyes. Some can even pose a danger to life at small concentrations, showing how important they are to carefully consider.

Some of the most common toxic gases include:

  • Carbon Monoxide
  • Hydrogen Sulphide
  • Chlorine
  • Sulphur Dioxide
  • Ammonia
  • Chlorine Dioxide
  • Nitrogen Dioxide
  • Hydrogen Chloride
  • Nitric Oxide

How Can We Protect Against Toxic Gases?

Not only can toxic gases be dangerous on their own, but the presence of another gas can also reduce oxygen concentration to toxic levels. With this in mind, it’s important to accurately assess the hazard level, while being proactive in dealing with it when it arises.

Reliable & Accurate Detection

Gone are the days of a canary in the mineshaft! Technology innovation means that gas detection systems are more reliable and accurate than ever. For a detector to continue sensing at an accurate level, it’s important to schedule in regular calibration and maintenance, so you can be sure your detection system is working as it should.

Comprehensive Safety Systems

Detection alone will not keep your workplace safe. Once a toxic gas has been detected, you need automated systems in place to remove the hazard. With a fixed gas detection system, you can integrate automated processes that initiate as soon as the target gas is detected.

These safety processes can include anything from automatically opening air vents, to shutting down manufacturing procedures. This instant response to a toxic gas hazard means that not only do personnel get alerted as soon as a hazard is detected, but measures are in place to minimise the risk immediately.

Toxic gases are just one of the many hazards that can appear in the workplace. With effective gas monitoring and a comprehensive safety plan, you can ensure your workforce stay as safe as possible.