In an industrial environment, dangerous gases can accumulate without visible signs. Carbon monoxide, H2S, explosive gases, or contaminated compressed air: these invisible risks threaten employee health and can lead to serious incidents.
The gas analysis makes it possible to detect these dangers before they cause problems. This guide explains when an analysis becomes necessary, which gases to monitor, and how to effectively protect your staff and facilities.
Key takeaways
- Dangerous gases (CO, H2S, ozone, explosive gases) are invisible and can accumulate quickly
- Regular analysis is mandatory in several industrial contexts under CNESST standards
- At-risk sectors include manufacturing, warehousing, confined spaces, and compressed air systems
- Early detection prevents accidents, occupational illnesses, and production shutdowns
- Exposure standards vary depending on the type of gas and duration of exposure
Why analyze gases in your facility
Dangerous gases come from multiple sources: manufacturing processes, combustion, decomposition of organic materials, equipment leaks, or contamination of ventilation systems.
Without regular analysis, you would not know whether your employees are breathing healthy air. Even at low concentrations, some gases cause headaches, fatigue, dizziness, or chronic respiratory problems.
In severe cases, exposure can lead to loss of consciousness, severe poisoning, or explosions. In severe cases, exposure can lead to loss of consciousness, severe poisoning, or explosions. According to the CNESST, air quality in the workplace is a legal responsibility of the employer, who must ensure a healthy and safe environment.
Which gases should be monitored
Carbon monoxide (CO)
Produced by incomplete combustion. Found in garages, welding areas, and near gasoline-powered forklifts. Odorless and extremely toxic.
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S)
A deadly gas that smells like rotten eggs at low concentrations but paralyzes the sense of smell at higher doses. Common in sewers, treatment plants, and certain industrial processes.
Explosive gases (methane, propane)
They accumulate in confined or poorly ventilated spaces. They create an explosion risk if concentrations reach flammability limits.
Ozone (O3)
Gas produced by certain electrical equipment and industrial processes. Irritates the respiratory tract even at low doses.
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
An indicator of insufficient ventilation. At high concentrations, it causes drowsiness, confusion, and health risks.
Breathing compressed air
Used in masks and respiratory equipment, it may contain contaminants (oil, water, particles, CO) that compromise worker safety.
Who should have gas analyzed
| Situation | Risk level | Recommended action |
| Confined spaces (tanks, silos, sewers) | High | Mandatory analysis before each entry |
| Welding or combustion operations | Medium to high | Regular analysis based on frequency of use |
| Breathing compressed air systems | High | Quarterly analysis or as per standards |
| Production areas with chemical processes | Medium to high | Continuous monitoring or scheduled analyses |
| Warehouses with gasoline-powered equipment | Medium | Periodic analyses in enclosed areas |
Best security practices recommend a proactive approach: analyze before symptoms appear among your employees.
Signs that an analysis is necessary
Certain indicators suggest an air quality problem in your facility:
- Employee complaints of headaches, nausea, or dizziness
- Unusual or persistent odors in certain areas
- Insufficient ventilation or faulty ventilation systems
- Recent changes to production processes
- Use of combustion equipment or volatile chemicals
- Unventilated confined spaces that staff must enter
Do not wait for an incident to occur. A preventive analysis costs far less than a workplace accident, a production shutdown, or legal action.
The steps of an industrial gas analysis
Initial assessment
A qualified technician identifies potential sources of contamination and determines which gases to analyze based on your activities.
Sampling and measurement
Air samples are taken in different areas using certified equipment. Measurements may be spot checks or continuous depending on needs.
Laboratory analysis
The samples are analyzed to determine the exact concentrations of each gas. Results are compared to exposure standards established by the CNESST and recognized organizations.
Report and recommendations
You receive a report detailing the results, their significance, and corrective actions required if exceedances are detected.
Prevention and best practices
The best prevention strategies combine regular analysis with engineering controls:
- Install permanent gas detectors in high-risk areas
- Ensure adequate ventilation in all workspaces
- Regularly maintain combustion equipment
- Train employees to recognize exposure symptoms
- Establish safe entry procedures for confined spaces
- Document all analyses and retain results
Environment and Climate Change Canada provides additional resources on industrial emissions management and air quality.
Plan your analyses based on your operations: quarterly for breathing compressed air, before each confined space entry, and annually for a general air quality assessment.
Protect your staff with professional analyses
The gas analysis is not a luxury; it is a legal necessity and an employer responsibility. Dangerous gases often give no warning before causing harm.
Regular monitoring allows you to comply with standards, protect your employees, and maintain a safe work environment. The results guide you toward concrete actions to correct detected issues.
Need a gas analysis in your facility?
Our team has the expertise and equipment required to perform industrial gas analyses compliant with CNESST standards. We will clearly explain the results and recommend solutions tailored to your specific situation.
Contact us before an incident occurs!
Frequently asked questions
How often should we analyze gases in our facility?
The frequency depends on your activities. Breathing compressed air requires quarterly analyses, confined spaces before each entry, and an annual general assessment is suitable for most industrial facilities.
What are the typical costs of an industrial gas analysis?
Costs vary depending on the number of gases analyzed, sampling points, and installation complexity. Generally expect between $500 and $2,000 for a complete analysis. It is a minimal investment compared to the risks.
Are our portable gas detectors sufficient?
Portable detectors are useful for daily monitoring but do not replace a complete professional analysis. Laboratory analyses detect lower concentrations and identify a wider range of contaminants.
What should we do if the analysis reveals high concentrations?
You must immediately restrict access to affected areas, improve ventilation, identify and eliminate contamination sources, and conduct a follow-up analysis after corrections. Document all actions for CNESST compliance.
Is gas analysis legally mandatory?
Yes, in several contexts. The CNESST requires employers to ensure acceptable air quality. Breathing compressed air and confined spaces have specific mandatory requirements. Fines for non-compliance can be significant.
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