A new hazard alert explains how multi-gas monitors can protect workers from atmospheric hazards in oil and gas operations. The monitors alert workers to the presence of toxic, flammable and oxygen-deficient atmospheres. The hazard alert was developed by participants in OSHA's Alliance with the National Service, Transmission, Exploration and Production Safety Network and NIOSH.
By alarming in the presence of harmful atmospheres, a properly calibrated multigas monitor can alert workers to unsafe conditions. Multiple atmospheric hazards may occur separately or at the same time. When the monitor alarms, workers need to safely move away (crosswind and upwind) and then determine which sensor is going off. Here are some tips for how to use multi-gas monitors properly in hazardous industry environments:
- Make sure workers using the monitors are aware of potential hazards, understand instrument readings and limitations, know how to respond to alarms and notify supervisors of alarms.
- Make sure the monitor is equipped with appropriate sensors for the potential hazards and the audible alarm is set to the appropriate atmospheric hazard being monitored as well as the task being performed.
- The monitor may need a sample pump to sample potentially hazardous areas remotely (e.g., confined space, areas where gas may stratify) prior to entry or hot work.
- Turn the monitor on in clean, fresh air away from vehicles and other engines, heaters and hydrocarbon sources.
- Make sure the monitor is on, charged, working and calibrated, and perform a bump test (function test) per manufacturer's recommendations.
- Always wear the monitor in the breathing zone. Never turn multi-gas monitors off for any reason, and if a monitor is malfunctioning, etc., leave the area and report to your supervisor.
For more information, visit www.osha.gov, www.cdc.gov/niosh or www.stepsnetwork.com.