Even small changes in oxygen levels can lead to serious hazards. Since oxygen has no color, smell, or sound, its monitoring relies entirely on technology.
Safe Oxygen Levels
The normal oxygen concentration in air is 20.9%. At levels below 19.5%, the environment becomes hazardous, and serious symptoms may occur below 16%. Below 10%, the risk of unconsciousness and death increases rapidly.
Excess oxygen (above 23.5%) also poses a danger as it significantly raises the likelihood of fire.
Gases That Displace Oxygen
Various gases are widely used in industrial environments or produced as by-products of industrial processes. Inert gases such as nitrogen, helium, argon, and carbon dioxide can displace oxygen in workspaces. While these gases are not toxic, their accumulation reduces breathable oxygen and may quickly lead to unconsciousness or death.
The risk of oxygen displacement is especially high in confined or poorly ventilated areas such as tanks, pits, storage facilities, or welding and packaging operations. Even a small drop in oxygen concentration can affect a person’s ability to function. This change often goes unnoticed, as most gases are odorless, tasteless, and colorless.
Where Is Oxygen Monitoring Needed?
Oxygen monitoring is critical in environments such as:
- Welding areas and metal industry
- Laboratories and chemical processes
- Gas cylinder storages and distribution centers
- Industrial production facilities
- Confined or semi-confined spaces like tanks and maintenance networks
Detector’s Solutions for Oxygen Monitoring
A correctly placed oxygen sensor monitors ambient oxygen levels 24/7 and alerts if the concentration drops or rises outside safe limits. The system can be integrated into factory automation, allowing automatic responses such as activating ventilation or restricting access to hazardous areas.
At Detector, we deliver complete solutions where sensors, control units, and remote monitoring form a unified and secure system. The Seguro gas control center and the browser-based Valvomo monitoring service allow for real-time data tracking, both locally and remotely. We also offer portable oxygen detectors for personal safety, as well as rental units for temporary protection.
Would you like to ensure safe oxygen levels in your work environment?
Contact us, and together we’ll build a safe and reliable solution tailored to your needs.