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Information Technology: VaporLab
Pocket-size tool monitors benzene
levels
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| Vaporlab is a handheld
device that monitors OSHA-regulated gases. |
VaporLab analyzes benzene and other OSHA-regulated gases.
At 3 lb and 8 x 5 x 3 in., it is small enough to move from
room to room. Gerry Flanagan, product sales manager, MSA Bowling
Green Inc., Bowling Green, Ky., says that using VaporLab can
made a significant difference in a construction crew's efficiency.
"Any construction work in an operating chemical facility
may have background contamination of the air," he says.
"Where there is construction on those sites, OSHA will
mandate monitoring. If you can't prove the gas does not exist,
then it's up to you to provide protective gear."
VaporLab reports on the concentration of benzene, a carcinogen.
If VaporLab shows that the benzene level is within safe limits,
there is no need for protective gear. "You can have your
people work in a much more comfortable and safe environment
without the protective gear," says Flanagan.
His company's objective is to take a complex measurement
and make it simple for the user. "There is a two-button
operation. The instrument does the analysis," he says.
In the case of benzene, the analysis will show the concentration
of it in parts per million. The user can set up the system
so that it will sound an alarm if the concentration exceeds
the safe level.
VaporLab has been on the market for two years. Flanagan says
it was designed to be used as a field instrument, not as a
modified lab device, so it is certified by MetLife for explosion-proof
use. It requires little training and not much upkeep. It can
endure a drop of 3 ft onto a concrete surface.
The list price is $6,995.
MSA Bowling Green Inc.
62 Corporate Court
Bowling Green, KY 42103
866-745-0099
www.Microsensorsystems.com
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