Chlorine gas is widely used in water treatment and a variety of industries, playing a vital role in disinfecting drinking water, swimming pools, and producing diverse consumer goods like paper, textiles, paints, and insecticides. However, while it’s essential, chlorine is also highly hazardous.
Nearly 20% of all chlorine produced goes into creating PVC, a versatile plastic found in everyday items such as window frames, car interiors, wiring insulation, medical bags, and vinyl flooring. In organic chemistry, chlorine is invaluable as an oxidising agent and facilitates reactions, with an estimated 85% of pharmaceuticals involving chlorine or its compounds at some stage.
Although historically used to produce anaesthetics like chloroform and cleaning solvents such as carbon tetrachloride, these compounds are now regulated due to their health risks. Chlorine’s powerful properties, though, remain invaluable—yet its extreme toxicity means that rigorous safety measures are essential to protect both workers and the environment.
The Unique Challenges of Chlorine
Chlorine is an effective and economical disinfectant but poses serious health risks. Exposure to chlorine gas irritates the eyes, respiratory tract, and lungs, and can cause prolonged respiratory issues for workers in frequent contact with it. For facilities handling chlorine, having gas detection systems is critical, especially in unmanned environments. These detectors should be carefully designed and maintained to alert personnel in real-time or notify responders at remote locations. For leak detection systems, customised alarm settings may be necessary to ensure swift action.
One challenge with chlorine detection is its tendency to cling to surfaces, including gas detector components. Even small contamination can cause chlorine to stick, delaying detection and increasing the resources needed for effective testing. The speed at which a sensor responds, especially during routine “bump tests” that check detector functionality, is key. Dräger chlorine sensors, for instance, deliver results in 30 seconds—up to four times faster than other sensors—helping safety teams respond swiftly and reducing operational costs.
Chlorine Detection Solutions from Shawcity and Dräger
Shawcity, in partnership with Dräger, offers a complete range of solutions to meet the complex needs of chlorine gas detection in various industries. Dräger’s products blend robust engineering and precision technology for effective and reliable chlorine detection across a range of applications:
- DrägerTubes®: These trusted detection tools measure contaminants across water, air, and soil, providing fast, accurate readings for chlorine and other substances. DrägerTubes® are ideal for both spot checks and ongoing environmental monitoring.
- Dräger Personal and Portable Gas Monitors: Available in single and multi-gas formats, these monitors continuously track chlorine levels independently or alongside other gases. Flexible enough for both open and confined spaces, these detectors offer reliable mobile solutions where fixed systems are impractical.
- DrägerSensors®: Designed for durability and precision, DrägerSensors® are available in various sensitivities to suit specific chlorine detection needs. They can be used in both portable and fixed devices, ensuring accurate, long-term monitoring.
- Dräger Detection Connect: This smart system integrates Dräger equipment with a digital platform, allowing users to track gas detection equipment and personnel status from anywhere. Detection Connect supports efficient, informed safety management.
Each of these Dräger solutions contributes to a safer workplace through early and precise detection of chlorine gas, helping facilities meet regulatory requirements, protect employees, and maintain operational efficiency.
To explore Shawcity's full range of wearable, portable, and fixed gas detection solutions, visit shawcity.co.uk, or reach out to our expert team for a demo, quote, or more information at 01367 899419 or info@shawcity.co.uk.
01367 899553
info@shawcity.co.uk
