Carbon monoxide detectors save lives. Whether it is time to upgrade your current system or install new monitors in a new facility, you need to make a good choice when you add this essential equipment. Otherwise, your safety precautions may be pointless, which places workers and customers at risk. Here are five factors to consider when you’re getting ready to choose new carbon monoxide detectors in San Jose, CA:
- Alarm volume: There is no point in installing carbon monoxide detectors if no one on the premises hears them. If you have a noisy manufacturing operation or machine shop, you will need to find a loud alarm—especially if your workers wear OSHA-certified hearing protection. There are models available made especially for loud environments. Consider those if you are concerned about volume. The minimum volume level required by Underwriters Libraries is 85 decibels, but depending on your workplace conditions, you may need to find something louder.
- Interconnectivity: Detectors must be able to communicate with each other. This is especially essential if they also provide remote alerts via smartphone. You cannot install one brand in one area and expect them to effectively communicate with a different model in another area. It is also unlikely that a new system will work with an older app if you have remote alerts. When you install new systems, the changes must be uniform throughout the premises. That is the only way you can assure alerts are issued in a timely manner to evacuate a plant or send help to make repairs.
- Lifespan: Carbon monoxide detectors, like other technology, have a maximum useful life. Sensors eventually wear out or are replaced with new technology. Models with low-battery and “end of life” warning features assure you make upgrades and repairs on time. Also, seek detectors with a long warranty. If they wear out prematurely, that will help you avoid losses after you invest time and money in a new system.
- Ability to test: There should be an easy testing process for your detectors. Tests should include all functions like alarm volume, remote alerts and sensitivity level. If your detectors only sound an alarm when carbon monoxide levels are especially high and dangerous, your workers may feel symptoms before they receive a warning. You want your alarms to issue warnings before workers feel symptoms. Otherwise, you risk illness and worker compensation claims. You cannot assure this safety precaution unless you choose a model that is easily tested.
- Local regulations: Your state or municipality may have standards for carbon monoxide detection in your industry. Check those first before investing in a system. Investing in a system only to find it does not meet those requirements does not work for your bottom line or workplace safety policies. Since laws can change, it is better to exceed requirements than settle for just barely meeting them.
MDC Systems Inc. provides carbon monoxide detectors in San Jose, CA to shops and businesses in the area. Call today to learn about our systems.