New approach in the procedures of gas freeing and inspecting confined and enclosed spaces in maritime vessels
Journal
Journal of Environmental Protection and Ecology
Date Issued
2010
Abstract
In naval vessels, air quality monitoring in general and specifically gas free-testing is an
important and demanding task. Gas-free procedures include measurements of oxygen levels, explosive
(% LEL) and toxic gases by qualified and experienced personnel through various handheld devices.
However, confined spaces of warships (fuel tanks, CHT spaces, voids, etc.) along with other special
features appeared in ships (low accessibility, poor lighting, moisture, lack of air movements, etc.)
provide with more difficulties regarding air quality monitoring. A versatile handheld field device,
originally developed for early location of entrapped people, specially modified and designed is tested
for supporting the air quality monitoring procedure of naval spaces. The device developed enables
chemical, visual and audio capabilities. Special performance characteristics such as robustness,
corrosive resistant, easy decontamination, explosive proof and minimum electromagnetic signature
are investigated for optimum performance. This all-in-one device will possibly provide on-line and
on-site measurements offering to fleet crewmembers and shipyards personnel an easy-to-use reliable
tool for performing air quality monitoring effectively, efficiently and quickly. Furthermore, the
cost for maintenance and inspection of confined spaces will be probably reduced without risking
personnel safety, while adding to air quality monitoring the abilities of audio and visual abilities
for surveillance.
important and demanding task. Gas-free procedures include measurements of oxygen levels, explosive
(% LEL) and toxic gases by qualified and experienced personnel through various handheld devices.
However, confined spaces of warships (fuel tanks, CHT spaces, voids, etc.) along with other special
features appeared in ships (low accessibility, poor lighting, moisture, lack of air movements, etc.)
provide with more difficulties regarding air quality monitoring. A versatile handheld field device,
originally developed for early location of entrapped people, specially modified and designed is tested
for supporting the air quality monitoring procedure of naval spaces. The device developed enables
chemical, visual and audio capabilities. Special performance characteristics such as robustness,
corrosive resistant, easy decontamination, explosive proof and minimum electromagnetic signature
are investigated for optimum performance. This all-in-one device will possibly provide on-line and
on-site measurements offering to fleet crewmembers and shipyards personnel an easy-to-use reliable
tool for performing air quality monitoring effectively, efficiently and quickly. Furthermore, the
cost for maintenance and inspection of confined spaces will be probably reduced without risking
personnel safety, while adding to air quality monitoring the abilities of audio and visual abilities
for surveillance.
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