RR973 - Review of alarm setting for toxic gas and oxygen detectors
Toxic gas and oxygen deficiency detectors are commonly used throughout the workplace to warn of potentially harmful exposure to personnel, and of dangerous gas leaks. The detectors employed to perform these tasks are personal (worn in the breathing zone, eg on the upper lapel), portable (typically hand-held or worn on a belt) and fixed (typically connected to a control and warning system). Carbon monoxide alarms are also employed in domestic premises to warn of carbon monoxide leaks.
Current knowledge on alarm setting for toxic gas detectors was reviewed by a literature survey and consultation with stakeholders (eg HSE, various industries, gas detector manufacturers). The purpose of this review was to develop a framework for guidance on alarm setting for toxic gas detectors as information is lacking on the rationale behind setting alarm levels. The available guidance was summarised, the factors which influence the alarm setting process identified, and recommendations made on how this process should be conducted.
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