Gas Detection

Many dangerous gases are invisible and odourless, so a leak can go unnoticed until it is too late. Gas detection systems continuously measure gas concentrations in the air and react automatically when safety limits are exceeded, protecting people, premises and equipment.

Every installation has its own risks. The most common systems are designed to detect:

• Carbon Monoxide (CO): A toxic gas produced by vehicle engines and incomplete combustion, found in car parks, garages and boiler rooms.
• Natural Gas and LPG: Flammable gases used in kitchens, restaurants, boilers and industrial processes, with a risk of explosion in the event of a leak.
• Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Builds up in wine cellars, cold rooms and beverage facilities and can cause asphyxiation.
• Refrigerant Gases and Ammonia: Used in refrigeration and air-conditioning installations, where a leak is a risk to health and the environment.
• Other Industrial Gases: Hydrogen, oxygen and other technical gases in battery rooms, laboratories and industrial plants.

A gas detection system consists of:

• Detectors: Catalytic, electrochemical or infrared sensors, chosen according to the gas to be detected and the installation site.
• Gas Detection Control Panel: Receives information from the detectors, manages several alarm levels and controls the associated equipment.
• Visual and Audible Warning Devices: Alert occupants to the presence of gas and warn them not to enter the affected area.
• Gas Shut-off Valves: Automatically cut off the gas supply when a leak is detected.
• Ventilation Control: Switches on extraction fans to renew the air and lower the gas concentration.

In covered car parks, carbon monoxide detection automatically controls the ventilation according to the measured levels. This keeps air quality within safe limits and ensures the fans only run when needed, reducing energy consumption.

Gas detection can be integrated with fire detection, smoke control, ventilation and the building management system. Alarms can also be sent as notifications to the people responsible for the site or to a monitoring centre.

Detectors must comply with the applicable European standards, such as EN 60079-29-1 for flammable gases, EN 45544 for toxic gases and EN 50545-1 for car parks. As sensors have a limited service life, periodic calibration with reference gas and timely sensor replacement are essential to guarantee reliable readings.

A professional gas detection system ensures:

• Early detection of leaks, before dangerous levels are reached.
• Protection against poisoning, asphyxiation and explosions.
• Automatic gas shut-off and ventilation of the space.
• Energy savings in car park ventilation.
• Specialised maintenance, calibration and technical assistance.

Contact us to assess the gas risks at your premises and receive a tailored proposal.