System-Monitored Gas Detectors Provide the Highest Level of Protection Against Silent Killers
Ideally, natural gas burns in an appliance completely and efficiently, mixing with the oxygen in the air to produce harmless carbon dioxide (CO2) and water vapor. But if conditions aren't right, the natural gas won't combust completely, giving off deadly fumes of carbon monoxide (CO).
There are also dire consequences should there be a natural gas leak where a pocket of combustible fumes collects in concentrated form. Should an appliance, such as a water heater, generate a spark when kicking on, this could be ample ignition to cause an explosion.
These examples show the importance of having a monitored gas detection system to guard against tragedy.
Types of Gas Detected
Carbon Monoxide
Commonly called by its chemical formula and usually emitted from internal-combustion engines, CO is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas produced from the partial combustion of carbon-containing compounds. When humans breathe in carbon monoxide, it enters the bloodstream and depletes oxygen from the blood cells.
Effects of CO Exposure
A lack of oxygen causes headaches and nausea followed by unconsciousness and ultimately death. Research shows that two out of every 1,000 CO-exposure poisonings may prove fatal in less than 30 minutes if there is a high concentration of gas in the air.
CO levels at Parts per Millions (PPM) and exposure Symptoms:
- 50 ppm safe exposure as specified by the Health and Safety Executive
- 200 ppm Mild exposure with symptoms of headaches for 2-3 hours
- 400 PPM Severer exposure with symptoms of widespread headaches in 3 hours
- 800 PPM Extreme exposure with symptoms of dizziness, nausea, convulsions and death within 45 minutes.
Carbon Monoxide Legislation
More than a dozen states have passed legislation requiring the installation of Carbon Monoxide (CO) detectors, and several others have CO-detection laws pending. Business owners should follow the advice of legislative bodies across the country and talk to their alarm dealers about the benefits of CO detection.
One of the main benefits of a system-connected CO detector is that these units contain a limited-life gas sensor that sends a trouble signal to the control panel when it reaches its end-of-life (EOL). That means if a CO situation arises or the gas sensor has reached its EOL, you will be notified by the detectors audible beeping, a message to the control panel AND a phone call from the central station.
Perils of Natural Gas
Natural gas is commonly used by appliances for cooking and heating. Should there ever be a weakened connection or loosened valve, a leak can occur resulting in a build-up of explosive and/or asphyxiating gas.
Although gas companies commonly mix mercaptan with the natural gas source to produce a rotten-egg smell, gas detectors are much more effective than the human nose to help protect you and your business. Plus, a system monitored by EMERgency24 will provide protection should the leak occur while people are sleeping, such as in a hotel, or while your business is unoccupied.
Natural gas includes a group of gases that are colorless and odorless compounds, not only poisonous but combustible and extremely explosive.
- Methane is a natural gas used for fuel which is formed by decomposition of plant or animal matter.
- Propane occurs in natural gas and in crude oil and is commonly used to fuel portable heating and cooking appliances.
- Butane is a colorless gas used in aerosol components, fuel, solvent, lighters and soldering tools.