Feature enclosed space leads to death after around 3 hours in adults . A dangerous gas like carbon monoxide requires measuring instruments which are particularly reliable . To be on the safe side , you have to know which CO meter detects flue gas absolutely reliably . The highest permissible concentration of carbon monoxide in a workplace is 30 ppm .
For many of these factors , facility managers are increasingly adapting their strategies such as increased ventilation , improved filtration , and air cleaning aimed to enhance occupant safety , comfort , and ensure productivity levels are not compromised .
• Occupancy / room sensors In their most basic model , occupancy sensors identify the presence of a person in a room . Occupancy sensors can help building owners or tenants improve their overall energy efficiency , particularly when used in combination with zoned HVAC systems .
There are two main types of occupancy sensors , PIR and ultrasonic . PIR or passive infrared , sensors measure heat and motion . They work via line of sight , so the sensors have to be aimed at where inhabitants will be and are best used in open rooms . Ultrasonic sensors send out a high-frequency sound wave . If it bounces back with a change , the system is triggered . Ultrasonic waves can pass through solid objects , so they can pick up smaller movements and are more sensitive than PIR sensors .
Integration to the building management system ( BMS ) allows multiple savings through controlling any zone ’ s temperature to the ‘ unoccupied ’ setpoint . Occupancy sensors can also detect ambient brightness levels , enabling the BMS to control powered light levels in the space . These sensors are typically in hightraffic or isolated areas , such as the building entrance , hallways , lavatories , floor , office rooms , etc .
Room sensors monitor motion and share data on occupancy activity patterns and environmental changes in temperature , humidity , and CO₂ . This data is invaluable in running an environmentally friendly building .
Testo
Sensors today can be wired or wirelessly linked to a system and building management system .
one area to another . Duct smoke detectors are used primarily to prevent the HVAC system from spreading smoke through a building . Duct smoke detectors are also required by regulations and building codes in many countries . For example , some regulations call for smoke detectors to be installed in return ducts for air conditioning units larger than a certain capacity .
Sensors also detect volatile organic compounds ( VOCs ). VOC sensors use a process called photoionization . Ionization is the changing of an atom ’ s charge . VOC sensors can ionize particles with ultraviolet light and measure electron levels . These
measures allow them to detect toxic or combustible gases .
SOURCES :
• Carel
• Humidair
• Metraclark
• New York University School of Engineering
• TecsaReco
• Testo
• Science Direct RACA
• Gas and smoke detectors Gas and smoke risks are some of the most dangerous aspects to have to deal with in any building and therefore require sensors that are extremely reliable in order to avoid accidents and potential damage .
When system pipes are getting on in years and there is increased wear over time , the risk of leaks increases . Leaks of any kind can lead to major losses , such as water damage or life-threatening gas / refrigerant accidents . A leak flow meter is indispensable in terms of preventing consequences of this kind due to dilapidated pipes or pipes that have been damaged through renovation or maintenance .
Ducts can move toxic gasses , smoke , and even flames from
David Mark | Pixabay
Indoor air quality has become increasingly important in all commercial and retail applications to minimise occupant health risks and avoid poor productivity .
www . hvacronline . co . za RACA Journal I January 2022 33