Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂): Invisible danger in the workplace
Safe detection with gas detectors
Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) is a toxic, reddish-brown irritant gas with a pungent odor that occurs particularly in industry, traffic and urban areas – wherever fossil fuels are burned. Whether in engine exhaust fumes, combustion processes, power plants or chemical production facilities – NO₂ is one of the most dangerous air pollutants and poses a significant health risk.
Why is nitrogen dioxide so dangerous?
Even in low concentrations, NO₂ has a toxic effect. It irritates the respiratory tract, promotes inflammation in the lungs and can lead to severe lung damage with long-term exposure – often without immediately noticeable symptoms. NO₂ is particularly critical in closed or poorly ventilated areas.
Toxicological limit values (Germany):
- OEL (occupational exposure limit value): 0.5 ppm (0.96 mg/m³)
- Odor threshold: 0.1-0.2 ppm (usually unreliably detectable)
- >1 ppm: Irritation of eyes, nose, throat
- >5 ppm: acute respiratory distress
- >10 ppm: Danger of severe lung damage
- >20 ppm: potentially life-threatening
Typical risk areas:
- Tunnels, underground garages, loading yards
- Vehicle depots, workshops, engine sheds
- Exhaust and engine test benches
- Fertilizer and explosives storage
- Chemical plants and silos
NO₂ is not flammable or explosive, but acts as a strong oxidizing agent. In contact with flammable materials or heat, it can cause dangerous reactions or intensify fires. It is also corrosive, which can damage systems and materials in the long term.
Early warning systems for NO₂ – protection through modern gas warning technology
As nitrogen dioxide is often not detected by smell, automated gas detection is essential. Our NO₂ gas detectors offer reliable safety in hazardous working environments.
Our solutions for NO₂ gas measurement:
- Highly sensitive detection in the lower ppm and ppb range
- Continuous 24/7 monitoring for industry and workspaces
- Visual and audible alarms when limit values are exceeded
- Automatic control of ventilation systems or emergency shutdown
- Stationary gas detection systems for halls, plants and storage rooms
Security solution for every industry – Typical areas of application:
- Exhaust gas test benches and vehicle tests
- Tunnels, underground garages, loading zones
- Fertilizer and explosives production
- Chemical production plants
- Workshops, depots, railroad facilities
- Biogas plants and silo areas
Your safety starts with reliable gas detection
Rely on precise, robust and low-maintenance gas detection systems for nitrogen dioxide to effectively protect your employees, machines and infrastructure. Our NO₂ detection solutions are specially developed for industrial use – safe, efficient and future-proof.
The following gas sensors and systems from Bieler+Lang can detect nitrogen dioxide
We will be happy to advise you on the selection of suitable detectors and the corresponding evaluation devices for your individual application.
