Gases and Vapours
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Gases and vapours are a danger that you cannot usually see. They are not only potentially harmful, but they also can be flammable or explosive. They may not have a smell, but when they are mixed, there could be an increase in the danger. Gases can be from a leaking pressurised gas cylinder, gas pipe or even gases given off from sewage pits.
Vapour is given off by a substance and can have immediate effects to your health. Sometimes you can get a slight shimmer in the air around a chemical, which may alert you, but this is not always the case. Gases and vapours are sometimes heavier than air, so they may build up in lower areas like pits or in buildings.
You can protect yourself by avoiding areas where gases or vapours could be and if you know they could pose a risk, always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment. There are gas detection alarms that can alert you if they detect a presence of a substance. These are compulsory in some work areas and they can be carried or sometimes there are permanent detectors placed around the site.