Train service and maintenance is performed at rail depots. These depots cater for maintenance to be carried out on the full length of the train. Maintenance pits and bogie drops allow workers to work underneath the train and perform maintenance tasks.
Workers need to be aware of the threats that depots pose when working in these sub-ground areas. Welding creates an oxygen enriched atmosphere whereas bogie drops pose an oxygen depletion risk because they’re classified as a confined space. Workers also face the gas risks of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide.
The bogie drop and inspection pit can be defined as a confined space and therefore you must carry out a suitable and sufficient assessment of the risks for all work activities to decide what measures are necessary for safety (The Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 were made under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.
Both fixed gas detection systems and portable gas detecting instruments should be used to provide protection against potentially hazardous situations at the rail depot.
Whilst working in and around inspection and maintenance areas, a personal gas alarm should be worn at all times to provide personal protection in the form of an alarm. The benefits of a personal gas detector are that it ensures workers have the protection wherever they are.
For personal gas monitoring, consider the PS500 which can detect up to five gases with its toxic and catalytic sensors, PID (VOCs) and IR capabilities (Carbon Dioxide).
A fixed gas detection system provides continuous monitoring around the clock. These systems have the ability to communicate a central data management system or onboard relays to activate perhaps a traffic light system to provide visual warnings. A fixed gas detection system can also activate a fan or extraction system to ventilate the area.
Do you require advice about gas detection? Contact a1-cbiss to arrange a site survey or talk to our technical specialists for help with your gas detection needs
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