Portable gas monitor ensures safe paint spraying

Citation

(2001), "Portable gas monitor ensures safe paint spraying", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 30 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/prt.2001.12930bad.005

Portable gas monitor ensures safe paint spraying

Portable gas monitor ensures safe paint spraying

Keywords: Crowcon, Health and safety, Paint application, Spraying

Paint spraying in enclosed spaces can now reportedly be carried out safely with the Custodian personal multi-gas monitor from Crowcon (Plate 1). The company explains that small enough to be worn on a shoulder strap or belt, the Custodian can monitor levels of flammable gases and oxygen concentrations, warning the user immediately if the atmosphere becomes unsafe.

Plate 1 Crowson's Custodian, the new personal multi-gas monitor

The solvents used in most paints are volatile and highly flammable, meaning that the atmosphere can quickly become explosive when paint is sprayed in a confined space. Oxygen may also be displaced during spraying, with even slightly reduced oxygen levels carrying a risk of unconsciousness or death. Levels of both gases must be monitored continuously to ensure a safe working environment during spraying.

According to Crowcon, the Custodian personal gas monitor can monitor levels of both flammable gases and oxygen. Highly visible and audible alarms warn the user immediately if concentrations of either gas become dangerous. An LCD display and simple push button operation enable quick and easy configuration and recalibration. Custodian is ingress protected to IP66 and is available with a protective leather pouch, safeguarding the unit against the potentially damaging effects of paint spray.

Weighing in at 500g, Custodian is described as both compact and robust and comes with a choice of shoulder strap, belt strap or harness. The unit is said to be intrinsically safe to EEx ia IIC T3 or T4 according to battery pack, enabling it to be used with complete confidence in the potentially explosive atmosphere of a paint spraying cubicle. Display routines, alarm setpoints and calibration data can all be password protected to prevent tampering. A dedicated Windows™-based software package is also available allowing full access to configuration and log data as well as zero, calibration and setup routines.

Details available from: Crowcon Detection Instruments Ltd. Tel: +44 (0)1235 553057; Fax: + 44 (0)1235 553062; e-mail: sales@crowcon.com; Web site: http://www.crowcon.com