Are you using area monitoring for your gas detection? Here are 10 tips from MSA.

The implementation of a gas detection program may seem complex at first. It includes protocols and equipment to prevent and react in case of a gas leak. Gases represent a potentially fatal danger for workers; therefore, the importance of a properly structured program is even more crucial.

Complexity increases in an industrial installation with medium-term deployment, confined space or a remote work site.

To organize a good gas protection program in this type of situation quickly, area monitoring is necessary. MSA, a major company well known in occupational safety, defines area monitoring as the “use of gas detectors combining elements of portable and fixed gas detectors to obtain a unique solution within a linked network.”

The MSA ALTAIR detectors allow efficient and durable area monitoring.

MSA 10 tips for efficient area monitoring

Capacity of monitoring the situation “live”

• Regardless of the worksite location, the operator, being on-site or not, must be able to get notifications and alarms from this live situation. Also, real-time alerts appear on the workers’ and operators’ devices.
• With this information, mass evacuation can be requested quickly by the controller.

Excellent connectivity

• Good prevention should be able to share information and data using a seamless network. The data gathered can then be analyzed and studied, even remotely, to optimize the existing safety system.
• MSA recommends using a system capable of working on several remote networks with the cloud or mobile app.

A network that can be deployed quickly

• Finding an area monitoring solution can take forever to install and set up. Therefore, the solution must be “ready to install”. Also, the system must be ready to understand with intuitive operation.
• In addition to eliminating errors that can occur during installation, an easy-to-deploy network helps save a lot of time.

Cutting-edge technology detectors

• Detectors with advanced technology offer greater sensitivity and quicker response in case of danger. Employee safety is highly dependent on detectors’ efficiency.
• Therefore, detectors must notify users when their effectiveness decreases and they need to be replaced. Detectors should be built to last for a long time.

Built strong

• As previously stated, detectors should work for a long time. They must be built to resist the harshest work environments.
• It is essential to ensure the detector is classified IP68. This class indicates the electronic device can be covered elements such as water and dust that can potentially damage specific electronic devices.

Durability

• Certain tests are excellent durability indicators for a detector. Both tests recommended by MSA are:
  • Resist to a 10-foot (3-meter) drop
  • Meet the IP68 requirements
• The device’s durability has a direct impact on the company’s expenses. Not having to replace a detector too frequently helps to reduce safety equipment expenses significantly.
• Avoid buying a detector with an antenna or detachable parts. That way, it will be easier to send it on-site without breaking it or losing any parts.
• To ensure the durability of your gas detectors, MSA recommends cleaning them well. Find out more about it here.

Long-life battery and low maintenance cost

• A gas detector with a long-life battery ensures that it can be used for long periods without constantly plugging it in. Recharge less frequently the detector’s battery increases the performance of your company while reducing associated costs.
• MSA recommends purchasing a device with a battery capacity to work for 60 days and warning you when the battery is nearing the end of its life.

Able to operate in various applications

• The ideal detector must meet the requirements of different workplaces in which it will be used. Whether in confined spaces, offshore oil platforms or on fences, the device must be operational.
• The same is applicable for temperatures in which it will be used.
• The network flexibility will allow devices to adapt to different workplaces, according to their dimensions and remoteness. Furthermore, this adaptability ensures the proper transmissions of alerts and notifications in real-time.

Easy to install

• The detector must be easy to install and uninstall on any site or plant. Therefore, selecting a resistant device without being too cumbersome is essential (otherwise, it could be challenging to install anywhere).
• MSA recommends the combination of a magnet that can hold 50 pounds and has a D-ring to hang it anywhere you like.

Performances that meet your expectations

• You can trust the manufacturer to ensure professional support and share its health and safety experience.