Working in confined spaces comes with serious risks, especially exposure to hazardous gases. Confined space gas detectors are essential safety tools that monitor air quality and alert workers to dangerous conditions.
To ensure proper use, these devices must meet specific safety regulations, calibration standards, and operational requirements.
This guide covers key requirements for confined space gas detectors, including legal regulations, detection capabilities, and maintenance best practices.
Why Confined Space Gas Detectors Are Necessary
Confined spaces often have limited airflow, increasing the risk of toxic gas buildup, oxygen depletion, or flammable gas accumulation. Gas detectors help prevent accidents by continuously monitoring the air and providing early warnings of hazardous conditions.
Without proper detection, workers could suffer from asphyxiation, poisoning, or explosions caused by undetected gas leaks. To ensure safety, gas detection is a mandatory requirement for many industries, including construction, mining, manufacturing, and wastewater treatment.
Regulatory Requirements for Confined Space Gas Detectors
Australian Standards and WHS Regulations
In Australia, gas detection in confined spaces is governed by Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations and the AS/NZS 60079 and AS 2865 standards. Employers must ensure that:
Confined space risk assessments are conducted before entry.
Gas detectors are used to monitor oxygen levels, toxic gases, and explosive atmospheres.
Detectors comply with intrinsically safe design requirements to prevent ignition in hazardous areas.
Workers receive proper training in confined space entry and gas detection use.
Failure to comply with these regulations can result in severe fines, legal liability, and workplace accidents.
Gases That Must Be Detected in Confined Spaces
A confined space gas detector should be capable of detecting multiple hazardous gases, including:
Oxygen (O₂) – Ensures breathable air. Levels below 19.5% indicate oxygen deficiency, while above 23.5% can lead to fire hazards.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) – A toxic gas that can cause unconsciousness or death, even at low concentrations.
Hydrogen Sulfide (H₂S) – A highly toxic gas found in sewers, mining operations, and wastewater treatment.
Methane (CH₄) and Other Combustible Gases – Can create explosive atmospheres in confined spaces.
Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂) and Ammonia (NH₃) – Common in industrial environments and hazardous to workers’ respiratory systems.
Key Features of a Confined Space Gas Detector
A reliable gas detector should meet the following functional requirements:
Multi-Gas Detection – Capable of detecting oxygen levels, toxic gases, and explosive gases simultaneously.
Real-Time Monitoring & Audible Alarms – Alerts workers immediately when gas concentrations exceed safe limits.
Intrinsically Safe Design – Certified for use in explosive atmospheres to prevent ignition.
Long Battery Life & Durability – Designed for extended field use with impact-resistant casings.
Data Logging & Connectivity – Allows tracking of gas exposure trends for compliance reporting.
Calibration and Maintenance Requirements
To ensure accuracy, confined space gas detectors must be properly calibrated and maintained.
Calibration Requirements
Bump Testing – Before each use, the detector must be tested with a known gas concentration to verify sensor accuracy.
Full Calibration – Required every 30 to 90 days, depending on manufacturer guidelines and workplace regulations.
Sensor Replacement – Gas sensors degrade over time and must be replaced as per manufacturer recommendations.
Routine Maintenance
Inspect for physical damage before each use.
Check battery levels to avoid mid-task failures.
Keep sensors clean to prevent contamination that could affect accuracy.
Training and Safe Use of Gas Detectors
Workers using gas detectors must be properly trained in:
Understanding gas exposure limits and alarm responses.
Performing bump tests and calibrations.
Responding to gas alarms and emergency evacuation procedures.
Using personal protective equipment (PPE) in confined spaces.
Employers should provide regular refresher training to ensure workers remain competent in gas detection safety.
Selecting the Right Confined Space Gas Detector
When choosing a gas detector, consider:
Worksite Hazards – Ensure the detector can monitor all potential gases in the environment.
Ease of Use – Workers should be able to operate it with minimal training.
Certifications – Look for compliance with AS/NZS standards and intrinsic safety certifications.
Durability & Battery Life – Choose models designed for rugged use in harsh environments.
Conclusion
Confined space gas detectors are a non-negotiable safety requirement for industries where workers are exposed to hazardous gases. By selecting the right detector, ensuring proper calibration, and training workers in safe usage, workplaces can prevent gas-related injuries and fatalities.
Employers must comply with WHS regulations and AS/NZS standards to maintain a safe working environment. Investing in reliable gas detection equipment saves lives and keeps operations compliant with safety laws.
