A multi-gas detector can measure many variations of compound substances. It detects the presence of more than one gas simultaneously, as different gases and vapors can be present at any one time in a given area. A multi-gas detector for fire service is important because detecting multiple gases allows one to prevent disasters and ensure a safe work environment by complying with the many requirements of the Industrial Safety and Health Law. A single device can sense the presence of several interrelated gases at the same time. Simply, it makes the appropriate adjustments to the optimized sensor to meet the demands to target specific gas. Multi-gas detectors are not only highly operable but also compact, lightweight, and portable. Here are the reasons why the fire department needs a gas detector tool.
Need Of Gas Detector For Fire Department
Firefighting involves a number of gas-related risks. Those who work in the emergency response field are certainly aware of the dangers associated with gas. A fire can generate toxic fumes at any point, but unless you have a multi-gas detector, you won’t be able to determine if the air in the cold zone is safe. Many firefighters have realized that portable gas monitors are a simple solution to these challenges and have become an important part of their turnout gear.
The following points will convince the fire department that multi-gas detectors should be included in next year’s budget:
The Ideal Gas Detection Solution For Every Scenario
Today’s fire departments respond to more calls of invisible, deadly gases than ever before. So, it is significantly more important to have the right gas detection equipment.
The fire department responds to many carbon monoxide (CO) alarm calls from homes. Multi-gas detectors are not only capable of detecting carbon monoxide, but they can also help you identify its source. Multi-gas detectors are useful not only for detecting CO but also for detecting natural gas leaks or other suspicious smells.
Firefighters face not just CO calls but other less-known gas hazards that require monitoring. Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) is a common and dangerous toxin present in fire smoke. The device helps in detecting this toxin gas easily.
After a typical house fire, HCN was never a concern. Since synthetic materials have largely replaced natural ones in the construction industry, HCN has gained in popularity. The amount of HCN released by these materials is unimaginable for firefighters from decades ago. On monitoring multi-gases, the gas detector device alerts you to common gas hazards, including HCN. It also tells you whether you need respiratory protection.
Firefighters can also use multi-gas monitors when entering confined spaces, such as a sewer or storm drain. Multi-gas detectors can tell you if you are safe to enter a confined space, whether you are inspecting the area or making rescues.
Need For Safety
The majority of fire departments have only one multi-gas detector per rig, but it is exponentially better than having no monitors at all. It is advantageous for each firefighter to carry a multi-gas detector.
Multiple gas monitors are able to share alarms and gas readings among themselves. Monitors can also transmit location and alarm information in real-time to a central controller, which can monitor the scene and dispatch assistance when necessary. These features improve the safety and awareness of your crew.
How does it work? You will be able to see on your monitors if one of your crew members goes into a structure and detects a surge in HCN or any other gas. All your crew members will know who is in trouble and what the atmospheric conditions are so that they know how to start the rescue.
Reliability And Durability
Industrial multi-gas detectors even perform in the harshest environments. During tests, they are exposed to extreme conditions and are protected from total dust ingress and prolonged immersion in water deeper than three feet.
Gas monitors are a necessity for fire departments, but one should be cautious while investing in new equipment. The gas detector you choose must be able to keep up with your crew and withstand repeated use.
It Is Easy To Maintain
Multi-gas detectors may seem like a high-maintenance device when viewed from a distance. However, the truth is that modern gas monitors are easy to handle if you have the right tools. If you want to ensure that your crew remains productive and not waste time on gas detection, you can automate maintenance tasks.
An Inexpensive Option
The cost of multi-gas monitors is relatively low for the amount of protection they provide. However, they do require an initial investment but will ensure your firefighters’ safety for many years to come. A monitor can more than pay for itself by preventing on-the-job injuries, making it easy to justify the expense.
Large fire departments having more than ten gas monitors can maintain their fleet by participating in a gas detector exchange program. Having this type of service eliminates labor costs and hassles. Also, it gives your crew more time to focus on the safety of the community. When you are responding to an emergency, the right tools make a huge difference. You need to step up your safety game if your crew doesn’t have multi-gas detectors.
Way Ahead
A fire department needs multiple gas detectors to ensure the safety of its firefighters and people in danger. The detector detects both the problem and the gases quickly. This way, critical situations can be avoided. Much like multi-gas detectors, circuit breaker identifiers are helpful in detecting faulty service. So, a firefighter should also have this device for their safety.
