Gas-detection systems are important front-line watch
dogs, and provide many process plants with early
notification of dangerous releases. Proper design and
layout is critical to the functionality of these systems,
but poses a challenge for many users since little
standardized guidance is available. A qualified safety
professional should be involved in all ultimate design
decisions. When designing a gas-detection installation,
the user must remember that gas detection is only one
part of a facility’s comprehensive safety management
plan. To be most useful during facility operation,
monitoring system users should address not only how
many sensors are required and where they will go, but
also how the real-time data provided by these devices
can be used to improve the overall safety of the plant
and its workers.