The recent additions to the SGT-P product range extends the product capability, providing high quality, low cost safety to an even wider range of industries. HCN, PH3, CL2 and HCL are all very exotic gas hazards and aren’t commonly found or thought of in industry. However, each is very hazardous for different reasons, so understanding, considering and implementing effective ways to manage these dangers is essential. This blog tackles this topic, explaining a bit more about when and where these hazards may need to be considered and why employing gas detection is essential for staff safety, and how the SGT-P can assist in managing these hazards.

Single gas HCN detection

HCN is found largely in manufacturing and chemical industries. It is a key component of the manufacturing of plastics, dyes and nylons, as well as being used in fumigation for controlling pests. HCN will often be used in its gaseous form and flushed through areas containing food to control the pest population. HCN may also be used for the processing of metals in automotive and mining industries. This is because it is an effective element in separating materials to extract ore, as well as Cyanide being effective in creating soluble metal complexes for usage in electroplating.

One of the main problems with HCN is that it is one of the most hazardous industrial gases. It is very toxic, making exposure to low levels cause issues such as nausea, unconsciousness and cardiac arrest. Short term exposure to high levels can be fatal. This invisible gas is lighter than air, so a build up can happen rapidly without warning.

Single gas PH3 detection

Similarly to HCN, High purity Phosphine is often used to alter the physical properties of certain materials, making it a common chemical used in the semiconductor and chemical processing industries. Phosphine is also widely used as a fumigant for the transportation of food and other perishable goods, or on farms. It is used in a pellet form and will release Phosphine gas upon contact with liquids such as water or stomach acid.

PH3 is a colourless gas but has a distinct smell of fish or garlic. It is a highly toxic and flammable gas, with even short-term exposure causing a wide range of neurological issues. Exposure to Phosphine gas can cause symptoms like faintness, headaches, chest tightness and pulmonary oedema. Phosphine may also spontaneously ignite in the air and can become explosive when mixed with Oxygen. It has a lower explosive limit (LEL) of 1.79% in the air. PH3 can also become explosive when coming into contact with oxidisers, aluminium or copper.

Single gas CL2 detection

Chlorine is most associated with the use of keeping swimming pools clean. It is great for this purpose as it is highly effective as a disinfectant as well as being soluble in water at 0.3-0.5ppm. Some of the less thought of, but just as frequent industrial uses include manufacturing. Chlorine is a key component in the creation of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), which is a plastic used in hundreds of thousands of different consumer products. CL2 is also often used in the electronics industry in the production of microprocessors and computers.

Although widely used in industry, Chlorine is extremely toxic and corrosive. Exposure to Chlorine gas can create a burning sensation in the eyes, skin and throat, as well as nausea and chest pain. High level exposure can cause pulmonary oedema and asthma-like effects in the lungs. It has a STEL of 0.5ppm and no 8 hour limit, as long term exposure is not permitted even at low levels due to how dangerous it is. With such a low exposure limit, a dangerous level can build up quickly, meaning control and continual awareness when working around or with Chlorine is vital.

Single gas HCL detection

Hydrogen Chloride is often used in food production as an acidifier in different foods, helping to extend shelf life and enhance the flavour, as well as for the processing of ingredients like corn syrup. These acidic properties also make it an effective cleaner, making Hydrogen Chloride a common ingredient in most household and industrial cleaning products. Hydrochloric acid is similarly used in Medical and Construction applications for its cleaning abilities. In Construction, it is great at removing rust and cleaning metals, whereas it is used in Hospitals as a disinfectant from harmful bacteria.

Hydrochloric acid turns to Hydrogen Chloride gas at room temperature, and can create Hydrochloric acid fumes when it mixes with water vapour in the air. It is a highly toxic and corrosive substance, with the HSE stating the exposure limits as low as 1ppm over an 8 hour period. If exposed to HCL gas, it can damage your eyes, cause severe burns and lead to a build up of fluid in the lungs. Long term exposure to low levels of HCL can cause permanent lung damage, so monitoring exposure and implementing the correct safety procedures is vital so staff safety.

The new SGT-P range

Each gas offers a unique hazard, but all must be monitored to ensure the safety of your staff, plant and the community around you. Implementing a continual monitoring system is a highly effective way to understand where areas of hazard can occur. With most of these gases being colourless, gas detection is one of the only ways to be able to see build ups in real time. Additionally, portable gas monitors are the only way to provide a live feed of individual exposure for each team member. Portable gas monitors are an effective tool to consider as part of your risk assessment.

The SGT-P is a durable, lightweight and reliable portable gas monitor to use in these applications. It’s one button operation system means training is quick and easy to understand for anyone using this equipment. Moreover, the SGT-P is easily maintainable. Spare parts can be sourced directly from Senko, lowering the long-term cost of ownership. It comes equipped with a vibration, audible and visual alarms to ensure that the user is aware of dangerous exposure in any environment.

To find out more about the new SGT-P range, contact us at latest@senkoeurope.com