Safe Handling of Hazardous Gases with Specialised Duct Systems

Common Types of Hazardous Gases in Industry

If you’re working in water treatment, petrochemical plants, or the manufacturing sector, you are more than likely dealing with some form of hazardous gas. Though these gases are commonplace and play huge roles in many processes, they come with serious risks. Here are a few you might encounter:

Chlorine: Used in water treatment and chemical manufacturing
Ammonia: Essential in refrigeration and fertiliser production
Hydrogen sulphide: A byproduct in oil and gas industries
Carbon monoxide: Produced in combustion processes
Methane: Common in natural gas and biogas applications

Exposure to these gases can cause immediate problems like respiratory issues or chemical burns, and in the long run, they can lead to life threatening health conditions such as cancer or organ damage. Some are also highly flammable or explosive, which poses a risk of major accidents.

That’s why it’s vital to have strong safety measures in place, and specialised ducting systems play a crucial role. They help safely manage and transport these gases, reducing the risk of exposure and preventing accidents. By implementing these systems correctly, you can protect your team, ensure a safer working environment, and keep your operations running smoothly.

The Role of Specialised Ducting Systems

When it comes to handling hazardous gases, it’s important to understand that standard ventilation solutions aren’t equipped to meet the unique challenges these substances present. While conventional systems may be fine for general air circulation, they often fall short in providing the level of safety and containment necessary for hazardous gases. Let us explain why specialised ducting systems are so crucial:

Firstly, these systems are designed with superior chemical resistance. This means they can withstand the corrosive nature of many industrial gases without degrading, which is essential for long-term safety and efficiency. Additionally, they incorporate advanced leak prevention features, significantly reducing the risk of harmful gas escape.

Fire resistance is another critical aspect, as many industrial gases are highly flammable. Specialised ducting is engineered to contain and prevent the spread of fires, adding an extra layer of safety. Lastly, these systems are built to handle varying pressure levels, ensuring stable and secure gas transportation throughout your facility.

By investing in specialised ducting, you’re not just ticking a compliance box—you’re actively protecting your workforce, facility, and the environment. It’s a proactive approach that can prevent dangerous incidents and potential disasters.

Key Features of Specialised Ducting Systems

Specialised ducting systems are specifically made to address the unique challenges of handling hazardous gases in industrial settings. Over the years we have found that the best systems incorporate several key features: For instance, they’re made using materials specifically chosen for their ability to withstand corrosive gases, ensuring long-term durability and protection. Safety is further enhanced through a leak-proof design, featuring carefully sealed joints and connections that reduce the risk of gas escapes.

To cope with the different pressure-levels often encountered in industrial processes, these ducting systems are built to manage fluctuations, maintaining stable and secure gas transportation throughout. Fire safety is also a key consideration, with the incorporation of fire-rated ducting to contain potential ignitions and prevent the spread of fires. Additionally, these systems can be integrated with gas detection technology, allowing for real-time monitoring and rapid response to any potential issues.

By combining these features, specialised ducting systems offer the best comprehensive solution for the safe containment and transport of hazardous gases in industrial facilities.

They not only meet current safety standards but also provide peace of mind, knowing that you’re using the best available technology to protect your workforce and operations. If you use specialised ducting solutions then you are demonstrating outstanding commitment to the safety of your workforce.

Best Types of Ducting for Hazardous Gases

At AMS Ducting Supplies, we offer a range of specialised ducting solutions designed to tackle the unique challenges of hazardous gas management. Our products are designed to safely transport and contain a range of substances, all while meeting strict safety standards. We focus on making sure your workplace stays secure and efficient, no matter what hazard you’re dealing with.

These are some of the most reliable solutions that we recommend:

Stainless Steel Ducting:

Our stainless steel ducting, available in both 304 and 316 grades, is an excellent choice for handling hazardous gases. It offers superior chemical resistance, making it ideal for corrosive environments. The high temperature tolerance of up to 900°C ensures it can withstand extreme conditions. This ducting is incredibly durable, promising a long service life even in demanding applications. Its smooth interior surface not only facilitates easy cleaning but also improves airflow efficiency. We recommend our stainless steel ducting for industries dealing with highly corrosive gases, high-temperature processes, or those requiring frequent sanitization.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Ducting:

For applications involving less aggressive gases at lower temperatures, our PVC ducting provides a reliable and economical solution. Available in various formats including our popular PVC flexible ducting, this option offers resistance to many chemicals while providing flexibility in installation. It’s particularly well-suited for temporary setups or areas where frequent reconfiguration is necessary. The temperature range for our PVC ducting typically spans from -5°C to +60°C, making it ideal for ventilation systems in less extreme environments or for handling mildly corrosive gases in ambient conditions.

We understand that selecting the right ducting is crucial for safety and efficiency. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of accessories, from clamps and connectors to custom fittings, ensuring you can build a complete, tailored ducting system. Whether you’re dealing with chlorine in water treatment, ammonia in refrigeration, or other hazardous gases, our team is ready to help you choose the perfect ducting solution for your specific needs.

Compliance and Safety Standards

Ensuring the safe handling of hazardous gases in the UK involves adherence to various regulations and standards. We are committed to helping our clients meet these crucial safety requirements.

Key regulations governing hazardous gas handling in the UK include:

Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974: This foundational legislation sets out the general duties employers have towards employees and members of the public.
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH): These regulations require employers to control substances that are hazardous to health, including many industrial gases.
Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR): These regulations apply to workplaces where dangerous substances could cause a fire, explosion, or similar energy-releasing event.
The Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000: These regulations cover the safe design and use of pressure systems, which often involve hazardous gases.

Additionally, industry-specific guidelines such as those from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provide detailed recommendations for gas detection, ventilation, and emergency response procedures.

We ensure our products meet or exceed these regulatory standards, helping you maintain a safe working environment while staying compliant with UK law. Our team stays up-to-date with the latest regulations and can provide guidance on selecting ducting systems that align with your specific compliance needs.

Ensuring Compliance with Industry Standards

Compliance involves several key steps:

Regular risk assessments
Implementation of proper safety protocols
Employee training on hazardous gas handling
Installation of appropriate safety equipment, including specialised ducting
Regular maintenance and inspections of all systems

Adhering to these standards not only ensures legal compliance but also creates a safer work environment.

Certification and Testing Requirements

Specialised ducting systems must undergo rigorous testing and certification:

– Pressure testing to ensure leak-proof performance

– Fire resistance testing for fire rated ducting components

– Material compatibility testing with specific gases

– Third-party certification to verify compliance with industry standards

These certifications provide assurance that the ducting system will perform as required in critical situations.

Our Specialised Ducting Solutions

At AMS Ducting, we’re not just about selling ducting systems – we’re about protecting lives and businesses. We know that when you’re dealing with hazardous gases, every decision matters. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to be your trusted partner in safety and efficiency.

We put safety first in everything we do. Our ductwork features leak-proof connections, seamless integration with gas detectors, and compatibility with protective wraps. Plus, we ensure full compliance with all safety standards.

Don’t leave your team’s safety to chance, view our range of high quality ducting solutions. Our knowledgable team are just a phone call away to help with any questions or concerns. We’re dedicated to ensuring you have the right tools to keep your operation running smoothly and safely.