Toxic and flammable gases in research laboratories: Considerations for controls and continuous leak detection

What additional controls are required when adding toxic or flammable compressed gas cylinders or liquefied gases to an existing laboratory has sometimes been a perplexing one. Code officials, architects, engineers, EHS professionals, and research laboratory users may have different perspectives on the applicability of regulations and risk. This paper presents the decision making process for the installation of continuous leak detection systems to existing laboratories in business occupancy in light of current National Fire Protection Association and International Building Code requirements and future roll out of the Globally Harmonized System.