Gas Detection in Breweries
With summer here, we welcome back beer gardens and brewery tours, a pinnacle of British culture. However, while breweries may conjure up images of bubbling vats and yeasty aromas, behind the scenes lurks a hidden safety challenge lurks: gas. While some gases, like CO2, are essential for the brewing process, leaks or improper handling can create hazardous situations for employees. This is where gas detection becomes a vital tool, safeguarding brewers and ensuring a smooth operation.
The Silent Threat: Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
CO2 is an essential component of the brewing world. It’s a natural by-product of fermentation and later becomes instrumental in carbonation and purging. The biggest danger with CO2 lies in its deceptive nature. It’s colourless, odourless, and heavier than air, allowing it to accumulate unnoticed in low-lying areas.
This hidden danger can lower oxygen levels. This puts workers in danger of suffocation. The risk is higher in small spaces such as fermentation tanks, kegs, or crawlspaces.
Other Gases of Concern
While CO2 takes centre stage, breweries may encounter other gases that pose safety risks:
- Ammonia: Commonly used in refrigeration systems, leaks can cause respiratory irritation, coughing, and even chemical burns.
- Nitrogen: Used for purging tanks and preventing oxidation, nitrogen can also displace oxygen and create asphyxiation hazards.
- Ozone: Employed for sanitation purposes, high concentrations of ozone can irritate the lungs and eyes.
Proactive Protection: Gas Detection Systems
Gas detection systems are the first line of defence in creating a safe brewing environment. These systems continuously monitor the air for specific gas concentrations. When a pre-set threshold is reached, alarms trigger, alerting workers to take immediate action, such as increasing ventilation or evacuating the area.
There are two main types of gas detection systems employed in breweries:
- Fixed Gas Detectors: Installed permanently in strategic locations like fermentation rooms, bottling lines, and cold storage areas, these systems provide round-the-clock monitoring.
- Portable Gas Detectors: These handheld devices are used for spot checks, pre-entry checks for confined spaces, and ensuring worker safety during maintenance procedures.
Investing in a Safe Brewery
Gas detection systems are important for the safety of your employees, not just a regulatory requirement. By creating a safe work environment, you can minimise the risk of accidents, improve employee morale, and ensure a smooth and productive brewing operation. A happy and healthy workforce is important for making good beer that customers love.
Furthermore, implementing a gas detection strategy demonstrates a commitment to responsible brewing practices. This can improve your image as a safe brewery, bringing in new customers and building trust with distributors and retailers. In today’s competitive craft beer market, prioritizing safety can be a valuable differentiator.
Our recommendations
Analox AX60+ Gas Detector
The AX60+ CO2 gas detector from Analox can be mounted on walls and is made to monitor carbon dioxide levels. You can also buy an optional O2 sensor addon for analysing oxygen levels. Useful for checking both low and high levels of gases, this a popular product amongst breweries.
For more information on this product, click here
Honeywell Sensepoint XCD:
The Honeywell Sensepoint XCD is a fixed-point gas detector and transmitter that is used to monitor combustible, toxic, and oxygen gas hazards in potentially explosive atmospheres. It is available in three versions: flammable, oxygen, and toxic.
For more information on this product, click here
Honeywell MicroClip XL
The BW GasAlertMicroClip XL is a portable detector. It can monitor different gases such as Combustible gases, Hydrogen Sulphide, Carbon Monoxide, and Oxygen. This portable option is deal for those entering confined spaces.
For more information on this product, click here
