The dangers of oxygen depletion are as such that a reduction of 2% in air concentration is deemed hazardous, and eight minutes of exposure in an oxygen-depleted environment can be fatal
Cryogenic gases such as nitrogen are used in hospitals and clinics for the cryogenic preservation of tissues, embryos and blood.
These gases are undetectable by human senses as they are colourless, tasteless and odourless.
A leak of a cryogenic gas in a confined space such as a laboratory or storage room is often undetected until it is too late.
In accordance with the HFEA, risk assessments have to be performed by the health and safety officers into the hazards of storing and using cryogenic gases.
The dangers of oxygen depletion are as such that a reduction of 2% in air concentration is deemed as hazardous by the HSE.
A reduction in oxygen will firstly impair co-ordination, the pulse rate will increase, and lips will turn blue as the victim slips into unconsciousness.
Eight minutes of exposure in an oxygen-depleted environment can be fatal.
The best way to detect a leak is to fit an oxygen depletion monitor.
Analox Sensor Technology says it has designed the ideal solution to the problem of detecting an inert gas leak.
The Analox O2NE is described as the cost effective way to monitor oxygen levels.
The sensor inside the monitor has an anticipated life of two years.
A specialist engineer is not needed to install the unit.
The Analox O2NE has two alarm set points which are both audible and visual.
Included in the unit is a repeater unit.
The repeater mimics the main monitor and is placed at the entrance of the door, ensuring people are safe to enter the room.
Analox Sensor Technology is a founder member of CoGDEM, The Council of Gas Detection and Environmental Monitoring, and are also an ISO 9001 accredited company.
