Oil and petrochemical operations involve hazardous gases that require continuous monitoring in extreme environments. Facilities need robust gas detection solutions for upstream and downstream operations to minimize the risks of corrosion, unsafe work environments, and uncontrolled explosions.
DOD Technologies develops robust gas detection systems that can monitor sites for combustibles and unsafe gases, allowing facilities to continuously monitor and protect work areas. We offer both fixed and portable detection solutions, as well as expert field support and centralized oil and gas monitoring.
Gas Risks in Oil and Petrochemical Facilities
The oil and gas industry faces unsafe gas risks in enclosed facilities and restricted environments. All facilities should have explosion-proof systems for monitoring against the following gas risks:
Benzene
Benzene is a flammable chemical component of crude oil and gasoline, and it can cause blood disorders, negative neurological effects, and some cancers with long-term exposure. It presents both serious health hazards and physical safety risks because of its flammability and ability to be ingested and absorbed.
VOCs
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) commonly found in gas and oil facilities include toluene and xylene. These chemicals cause cancer, respiratory issues, and damage to the central nervous system with prolonged exposure. Uncontained VOCs also cause smog and increase the risk of explosions.
Hydrogen Sulfide
Hydrogen sulfide is extremely dangerous. It's a colorless, toxic gas that can accumulate in confined spaces and cause unconsciousness and death quickly by hampering cellular respiration.
Combustibles
Processing oil and gas releases highly combustible gases and vapors that can ignite, resulting in very dangerous fires and explosions. Uncontrolled combustibles can react to open flame, sparks from welding, and even static electricity.
Fixed Gas Detection in Hazardous Areas
Oil and gas facilities need to employ both permanently installed and portable detectors across different applications and work site types. Fixed oil industry gas detection systems are permanent installations that continuously monitor the air for potentially hazardous traces of combustibles, VOCs, hydrogen sulfide, and other hazards.
Class I Division 1 Compliant Systems
DOD Technologies provides facilities with Class I Division 1 (C1D1) compliant gas detection systems. The designation applies to any facility or worksite where there are flammable vapors and fluids present in normal operating conditions, such as gas processing facilities, distribution centers, and mining facilities. These systems include a certified gas detector or a series of multiple detectors, an explosion-proof enclosure, and safe wiring and circuits that don't contribute to ignition or combustion risks.
C1D1 compliance goes beyond the hardware itself. The equipment also needs to be certified, properly installed in all areas of the facility that require this level of detection, and have thorough maintenance records to ensure the system stays in optimal operating conditions at all times.
Portable Detection for Field Operations
Fieldwork sites also need to have suitable gas detection solutions to keep workers safe and avert the risk of an explosion or accident. Portable detection systems can:
- Monitor for O2 depletion
- Detect hydrogen sulfide from sour wells
- Support upstream, midstream, and downstream monitoring and personnel protection
- Detect hydrogen sulfide in low, confined spaces, where it can accumulate
Implementing portable detection technologies keeps active work sites safer, stops accidents during transportation, and gives your company more visibility into working conditions.
Monitoring During Drilling and Maintenance
Single-and multi-gas detectors can operate near drilling operations, poised to alert workers if unsafe levels of gases are detected, including both too-high traces of hazardous gases and too-low levels of oxygen. Gas detectors can also protect workers from leaks and irregular exposure during equipment maintenance cycles. During maintenance, workers might be exposed to hydrogen sulfide or benzene beyond what normal operations usually risk, and portable monitors can sit directly at potential points of exposure.
System Controllers and Central Monitoring
DOD Technologies also provides system controls and centralized monitoring technologies so integrated smart systems and off-site teams can remotely observe and manage gas levels. These systems can support:
- Real-time interventions in the event of a detected leak
- Datasets that lead to long-term system improvements and overhauls
- Compliance with regulatory demands
Managing Large-Scale Installations
Instead of relying solely on localized, standalone systems, oil and gas processing centers can shore up protections with large-scale, integrated gas detection systems. These systems can identify set zones with leaks, trigger alarms to evacuate the area, and notify emergency response teams all at once, without waiting for manual communications.
Field Service and Ongoing Support
DOD Technologies provides both hardware and expertise. We service very harsh environments by providing maintenance support, installation services, on-site modifications, and repairs. You can send in equipment for repairs and calibration, or we can send in trained field service repair technicians to keep your gas detection and risk management systems in good operating condition at all times. Our full range of technical services includes preventative maintenance, system design and installation, equipment startup, repairs and tuneups, and more.
Keep Your Worksites Safer With DOD Technologies
DOD Technologies provides oil and petrochemical operators with rugged gas detection solutions built for safety, compliance, and long-term reliability. Protect your facilities with permanent, integrated detection solutions, and protect worksites with portable detectors.
Reach out to DOD Technologies today to discuss what tools will work best for your needs.