Methane is a component of the earth’s atmosphere and is present at low concentrations. We inhale methane along with other atmospheric gases such as nitrogen and oxygen when we breathe. At room temperature and pressure, methane is an odourless and colourless flammable gas and is composed of carbon and hydrogen with the chemical formula of CH4, with the main component of natural gas and CSG. It is one of several gases including carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide and fluorinated gases that are greenhouse gases. Greenhouse gases trap heat in the earth’s atmosphere, which ultimately leads to global climate change.
It’s important for workplaces to put appropriate measures in place, to detect levels of Methane and to ensure their worker’s safety. Ethyl Mercaptan can be added to help detect the gas, via smell. Considering the odourant is described to have a rotten egg or rotten cabbage-like smell, it makes it easier for individuals to detect when gas is present. However, most industrial uses do not use Ethyl Mercaptan, therefore, it can only be detected via a gas detector. Exposure to low levels of methane may cause dizziness, headaches or a general feeling of fatigue. These symptoms subside when exposure to the gas has ended. However, if an individual is exposed to the gas at high concentrations, methane will displace oxygen, depriving the body of oxygen which may, in turn, pose as an asphyxiation hazard. Symptoms may include agitation, slurred speech, nausea, vomiting and headaches, all depending on the length of exposure.
The Laser Methane Mini (LMm), is a compact laser methane gas detector, and is superior for its small size and long-lasting battery. Pocketable for work clothes and convenient for carrying, the LMm is capable of remotely detecting methane and other gases containing methane (natural gas or similar), without having any interference from other gases.
It can quickly detect gas leaks or accumulated gas from a remote place by simply pointing a laser beam at the target and is even able to detect a leak through glass and non-tinted windows, without the need to enter a house or a building. Additionally,
By detecting methane at distance, the user can work well outside the danger zone. Removing the operator from potentially hazardous and hard to reach areas reduces the risk of these situations.
For more information on the LMm, click here, or contact Brad on 0413 977 215 or email him at sales@controlequipment.com.au
