Beverage industry

Gas hazards occur in many areas of the beverage industry: from carbon dioxide used in the carbonation of soft drinks to hazardous gases produced during the fermentation and distillation of alcoholic beverages. Whether as essential process aids or unwanted by-products, the precise monitoring of these gases using Gas Detectors is crucial to identify hazards and ensure the safety of personnel.

Gases in the beverage industry

The gases used in the beverage industry can be divided into three categories:

1. Processing aids: These gases have technical functions during processing or storage.
2. By-products: Unavoidable gases generated during the production of beverages.
3. Additives: Gases that are added to the end product.

Additives

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the most prominent additive in the beverage industry. It ensures the carbonation of beverages and is dissolved in liquids under high pressure. Although CO2 is often considered harmless, in higher concentrations it can cause headaches, dizziness and unconsciousness.

Nitrogen (N2) is also frequently used, e.g. for the creamy consistency of beers and, more recently, coffee. Although nitrogen is not toxic, it poses a suffocation hazard in enclosed spaces.

Processing aids

CO2 and nitrogen are also used as purge gases for the headspace in beverage containers to prevent oxidation or spoilage. There is a particular risk in bottling plants: CO2 can have toxic effects, while nitrogen poses a risk of asphyxiation.

By-products

In breweries, wineries and distilleries, CO2 is produced as a by-product of alcoholic fermentation. In distilleries, sulphur dioxide (SO2), a toxic gas, and flammable vapors are also released during distillation.

Lack of gas monitoring in the beverage industry

Unfortunately, accidents caused by gas hazards occur time and again in the beverage industry. Continuous monitoring of the environment is essential to ensure the safety of personnel and to comply with legal limits.

Gas detection solutions from Bieler+Lang for the beverage industry

In addition to portable Gas Detectors, permanently installed gas warning systems must also be used due to labor law regulations:

• Permanently installed gas detection systems from Bieler+Lang: These provide continuous monitoring in breweries, distilleries, bottling plants or in storage rooms in bars and pubs. From the small, reliable system in the pub around the corner to digital 2-wire BUS technology from Bieler+Lang, which reduces the amount of cabling required for larger systems by up to 70 %, we will find the right solution for every requirement.
• Portable Gas Detectors from our smg partners: These devices offer protection in the immediate vicinity of the user and are ideal for service personnel or delivery staff. Thanks to our partners in the safe monitoring group, we are also well positioned here.

Conclusion

A fixed gas warning device ensures the most comprehensive safety in the beverage industry. Bieler+Lang offers customized solutions with industry-leading technology and many years of experience.