Explosivity

Entering confined spaces? Working with solvent vapours?

It can be a hazardous business....

• Explosion risk
• Lack of oxygen
• Toxic gases or vapours

Employers have responsibilities to ensure adequate measures are taken to prevent property damage, injury and death.

If a death does occur, the rescuers may also perish in the incident. A recent USA study showed that 39% of deaths from entries into confined spaces were caused by attempts to rescue another person.

This clearly shows how a lack of management control can carry a high cost in loss of life.

New Environment provides a range of monitoring, inspection, and consultancy services on safe working in confined spaces and/or potentially explosive atmospheres including:

• Logging of Explosivity and Oxygen with Safety Alarm
• Measurement of Toxic Gases and Vapours
• Supervision of Confined Space Entries
• Advice on relevant Standards and Codes

Continuous Monitoring And Data Logging Of Explosivity

Explosivity is generally monitored by measuring the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL).

LEL <5% - work is OK

LEL 5% - 10% - work may be carried out but continuous monitoring of the space is necessary

LEL >10% - get out immediately

LEL 100% - if ignition source exists an explosion or fire will occur

Oxygen

Continuous monitoring of oxygen levels in confined spaces such as vats, tanks, shafts, tunnels, sewers and silos. Oxygen should be in the range of 19.5% to 23.5%.

Toxic Gases and Vapours

Gases such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and oxides of nitrogen may require continuous monitoring. Sampling and chemical analysis may be required for particular toxic vapours.