Many industrial processes require the use of toxic gas and chemicals that can be dangerous to humans. These workplaces must apply the strongest available safeguards to protect workers while still performing many critical functions for our economy. Below, you’ll find some of the most common gas-related safety hazards in industrial workplaces and some of the measures they use to avoid health risks.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Rooms can quickly fill up with carbon monoxide (CO) when you’re working in poorly ventilated areas or when you improperly burn gas-fueled devices. CO is a colorless and odorless gas that can bind to your hemoglobin receptors and deprive you of oxygen. People operating in or around enclosed spaces such as sewers, auto repair shops, garages, tunnels, loading bays, and warehouses face the highest risk.
The biggest reason CO is so dangerous is that it’s tough to detect. That’s why it’s essential for workers in these industries to practice smart enclosed space protection measures, like using CO detectors and making sure they’re ventilating working areas.
Gas Leaks From Pipes
Pipe leaks pose a significant safety danger in the oil and gas sector. You can find pipes buried below the foundation of a structure, beneath floors, or even in walls and ceilings. When workers neglect them, they can rupture and emit gas.
You can prevent leaks in many ways. Consider purging areas where gas is known to build up and using the proper work practices for gas installations. Additionally, you should install gas leak detection systems, alarms, and automated shut-off valves in all enclosed spaces where pipes run.
Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide
Hydrogen sulfide is a gas that is both explosive and poisonous, and it’s the result of the decomposition of organic materials. In very high concentrations, just a few breaths can be lethal. At lower concentrations, it has a strong odor that smells like rotten eggs.
Higher concentrations can stiffen the receptors in your nose, so you might not even detect it beyond the first moment you smell it. Many industries use hydrogen sulfide, including textiles, petroleum and natural gas, wastewater treatment, and farming. There are several ways to prevent exposure to this toxic gas, such as using explosion-proof ventilation systems and implementing strict rules about entering and exiting spaces where hydrogen sulfide is present.
Understanding some common gas-related safety hazards in industrial workplaces can be an eye-opening look into the risk workers put themselves through every day to perform necessary jobs. Anyone working or operating in industrial spaces needs to do everything possible to prevent accidents.
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