New gas-detection devices for building code inspectors in Covington could save lives

Building code inspectors in Covington, Ky., are using new gas-detection devices that could save someone’s life. The multi-gas monitor detectors by Coreel measure four different types of harmful gases — carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide (a highly flammable and highly toxic gas occurring naturally in sewers and well water), dioxygen (unburnt oxygen) and lower explosive level of flammable gases — that can be very deadly. The detectors have three alarm methods and come with adjustable audio, visual and vibration alarm alerts when preset levels are reached. The detectors use advanced integrated circuit technology, embedded microcomputer control and gas sensors for sensitivity and repeatability. Previously, monitors could only detect carbon monoxide but the new technology is able to detect harmful gas that could be dangerous to unknowing residents.

The new devices are part of an ongoing top-to-bottom look at improving the effectiveness of Covington’s code enforcement division. Building code inspectors, like code inspector Jeri Asher, have been carrying the devices with them on every inspection for the last two weeks. They bring the devices outside to test before entering the building they’re inspecting. “What you do is, you can breathe into it and it’ll do an alarm set, and then you clear it, and then you can go into the house,” Asher said. And while she’s typically not specifically inspecting all of the gases the device can detect, it’s providing an added layer of security. “This is a great tool. It’s probably one of the best things that we’ve gotten in a while,” she said. “Your home is the most important place to anyone, so I think the extra layer of protection, just knowing somebody with the knowledge of things that can go wrong within your home is important, and that’s why I enjoy doing this.”

The new devices are meant to be preventive but also give city residents peace of mind. For many people, the home is where they feel most safe. One Covington homeowner said that having his house inspected with the new gas detection device, and now knowing that it is gas-free, gives him extra peace of mind. “It does help, for homeowners to have everything up to date, especially the smoke detector,” said Alberto Gomez, an architect who moved to Covington from Puerto Rico who knows how important it is to keep everything up to code. “Not only to have a good night’s sleep, but also for the liability.”

Source: Spectrum News 1