Portable gas detectors are carrie or worn clipp to an item of clothing. They form part of a person’s PPE. This category of detector is a life safety device provide alarms to the wearer when target gas levels exceed safety limits. They should not be mixed up with handheld gas leak detectors or analysers which are not intended as life safety devices. They can screen for hazardous species that may enter an operator’s breathing zone or be used for confined space entry testing. Portable gas detectors can be just for a single gas or may monitor for up to seven gas types. They have spread, there are also pumping, depending on the application. Portable gas detectors are suitable where a fixed system cannot be installed.
Some application examples may be:
- Sewage workers
- Workers maintaining storage tanks (aircraft fuel tanks, process vessels, etc.)
- Gas delivery drivers
- Large process sites – generally in conjunction with a fixed system
Pros:
- Easily deployed
- Directly protects an individual
- Can combine with a working alarm via GSM
- GSM connection unit allows tracking and remote monitoring
Cons:
- No automatic responses
- The operator must after training to operating equipment
- Requires daily bump test
- Does not provide 24/7 monitoring
- Only protects a single user
- The user is wearing the unit and so is in the hazard when the detector alarms
Deciding Between Fixed and Portable Gas Detectors
As a general rule: If it is at all practical a fixed system is always preferable to a portable gas detector.
Portable gas detectors may need to verify alarms from fixed systems to provide additional protection. If fixed systems are impractical (e.g. no one is fitting fixed gas detection systems in sewers) then use portables.
It is important to involve gas detection specialists at an early stage. You may identify through risk assessment a gas hazard. That is the safety requirement for any owner/operator. Once identified understanding the hazards of your application is critical to choosing between a fixed and/or a portable gas detector. A gas hazard overview will consider:
- How to store the gas?
- How the gas delivery?
- How and where to use gas？
- By products of gas usage?
- Nature of the gas hazard and gas characteristics?
Solutions provided need to consider the best monitoring technology for the gas type and the environment in which it must operate. People must know how to respond to alarms.
There are, of course, myriad additional things to consider before selecting a gas sensing solution. Therefore, you should always consult the manufacturer or trained/certified distributor agent when it comes to selecting which equipment you require for your site.
For more examples about product selection, read our previous blog: Choose the best gas detector
At International Gas Detectors, we supply a wide range of fixed and portable gas detection instruments for your convenience. Contact a member of the team today if you would like product specifications or to make a request for quotes.
