Page 8 - OHS, November/December 2021

TRAINING: IH: GAS DETECTION
A Layered Gas Detection
Approach for Comprehensive Site Protection
For safety managers and site emergency response managers, gas detection is a key focus.
BY JASON WINBURN
Many industries operate in hazardous environments, including oil and gas, mining, refineries, utilities, shipping, construction and others where exposure to harmful gases is common. Detecting gas leaks early is
important because if left unresolved, those leaks can lead to injuries and property damage.
Flammable hydrocarbon gas leaks are invisible and often odorless, especially when operations take place outdoors. These gases can be toxic and highly combustible, so working with or around them can put workers in high-risk situations. If workers come in extensive contact with certain gas types and levels, they
can suffer injuries1 affecting the eyes, lungs or central nervous system or sometimes even death. The statistics show that gas leak incidents are not as rare as they may seem. The U.S. Bureau
2
of Labor Statistics shows that, for 2019, there were 642 fatal
occupational injuries from exposure to harmful substances or environments and 99 fatalities from fires and explosions.
For safety managers and site emergency response managers, gas detection is a key focus which usually involves detection devices, monitoring software, PPE and extensive training and procedures. In situations involving hazardous gases, it is critical for facilities to respond quickly to any incident, from detecting gas
8 Occupational Health & Safety | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 www.ohsonline.com
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