Why Fixed CO2 Gas Detectors Are Essential
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is colorless and odorless—impossible to detect by smell. It is about 1.5 times heavier than air, settling in low-lying confined areas. CO2 continues to accumulate even when workers are absent at night or on weekends. Facilities with persistent CO2 risk need fixed gas detectors that monitor around the clock, independent of worker presence.
CO2 Health Effects by Concentration
| CO2 Level | Health Effect | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 400 ppm | Normal atmospheric level | Harmless |
| 1,000–5,000 ppm | Headache, impaired concentration, fatigue | Korean TWA limit: 5,000 ppm |
| 15,000 ppm (1.5%) | Dyspnea, dizziness | Immediate evacuation required |
| 50,000 ppm (5%) | Risk of unconsciousness | Within 30 minutes |
| 100,000 ppm (10%) | Potentially fatal within minutes | Immediately lethal |
※ Source: Korean MoEL Chemical Exposure Standards (2023), NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards
Real Accident — CO2 Suppression Discharge (UK, 2014)
At an Inverness shopping center, a CO2 fire-suppression system accidentally discharged into an occupied plant room, killing one engineer and injuring others. The absence of fixed CO2 detection and alarm systems in the suppression zone was identified as a primary cause. (Source: UK Health and Safety Executive Incident Report, 2014)
WANDI FIX800 — Fixed 5-Gas Detector
The WANDI FIX800 is a wall-mounted fixed gas detector that automatically monitors gas concentrations 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. A single unit can simultaneously measure up to five gases including CO2, with sensor combinations freely configured for each site's specific hazards.
The FIX800 pairs with the FIX-DS LED display board to show real-time gas readings at the entrance, enabling workers to confirm safety before entering. Two-stage alarm thresholds, strobe lights, and optional cloud notifications complete the safety ecosystem.
Prevention Scenario — How FIX800 Protects Workers
Had a FIX800 been installed in the 2014 UK incident, the CO2 discharge would have triggered an immediate first-stage alarm visible on the FIX-DS panel at the room entrance, and a second-stage alarm disabling the door-entry signal—preventing fatal entry into the lethal atmosphere.
A Closer Look at the WANDI FIX800
Below are real photos of the WANDI FIX800 fixed multi-gas detector.
