Benzene limits have been lowered continuously in recent years, therefore, it is essential for companies to implement safety measures
Visitors to Offshore Europe 2023 in Aberdeen, Scotland (5 -8th September) can see the new Titan 2 fixed continuous benzene monitor at the Ion Science stand 1G24 in Hall 1.
Workers in the oil and gas industry, including the offshore petroleum industry, may face the risk of exposure to benzene. Benzene is a hazardous group 1 carcinogen that can cause leukaemia and lymphoma and is subject to very strict workplace exposure limits. Benzene limits have been lowered continuously in recent years, therefore, it is essential for companies to implement safety measures and monitoring systems to protect the health and safety of their workers.
Current EU 8-hour TWA for benzene is 1 ppm (3.25 mg/m3). However, from 5th April 2024, the long-term exposure limit will be reduced to 0.5 ppm – and will be cut again from April 2026 to just 0.2 ppm.
The demand for heightened sensitivity driven by regulatory requirements finds its perfect match in the Titan 2. The advanced technology combined with the latest PID sensor enables the Titan 2 to reduce cross-sensitivity issues and enabling rapid detection of benzene at ultra-low levels, as little as 0.02 parts per million (20 parts per billion).
The Titan 2 captures a gas sample once every 60 seconds. The sample is then conditioned within a further 60 seconds to allow precise benzene measurement, ensuring a consistent flow of real-time data. The latest model now includes the piezo electric micro pump, enhancing pressure and flow accuracy, guaranteeing swift responsiveness and excellent reliability.
Titan 2 features visible alarm capabilities that activate alerts when benzene concentrations reach two operator-configurable levels. With twin relay outputs, users can seamlessly integrate the unit with existing site alarm systems. Additionally, the user-friendly firmware simplifies the calibration procedure.
Summarising, Duncan Johns, group managing director, says: “Benzene is one of the more dangerous VOCs so the Titan 2’s ability to reliably speciate this gas is extremely important in the protection of lives, and with lowering regulatory limits, the instrument’s enhanced sensitivity is a major advantage.”
Ion Science will be showcasing its complete instrument range offering at the event, including its persona; wearables, portable handheld devices and fixed gas detection solutions. The new Panther gas leak detector will also be on show, which is capable of detecting helium, hydrogen and ammonia leaks.
