When it comes to the world of beer, the focus is often on the flavors, types, and brands available. Behind the scenes, though, there’s a crucial aspect that deserves attention – safety. Specifically, the need for CO2 monitors in walk-in beer coolers cannot be overstated. In this article, we’ll explore why installing gas monitors is essential in many applications, as well as distinguish between scenarios where they are necessary and when they are not. We’ll also highlight the various Analox monitors that can be utilized where monitors are necessary, explaining the benefits of each, to help ensure Simple CO2 Safety.
The Basics of Walk-In Beer Coolers: Piped vs. Non-piped Applications
Before delving into the need for CO2 monitors, let’s establish a fundamental understanding of why CO2 is present in walk-in beer coolers. In many establishments, CO2 is piped into these coolers to maintain the quality and freshness of the beer. This process helps to preserve the beer’s carbonation and flavor, providing customers with a satisfying drinking experience.
Non-piped CO2: No Monitor Required
If your walk-in beer cooler does not have CO2 being piped to it, there is generally no need for a CO2 monitor. In these cases, the cooler operates without the added complexity of managing gas levels, and the risk of a CO2 leak is minimal.
Piped CO2: A Cause for Caution
However, when a walk-in beer cooler is equipped with a piped CO2 system, the dynamics change. In this scenario, it is imperative to install a CO2 monitor. The reason is simple – a leak in a confined space, such as a walk-in cooler, can lead to a rapid buildup of CO2, creating a potentially hazardous environment.
Risks of CO2 Leaks
CO2 is a colorless and odorless gas, making it difficult to detect without specialized equipment. A leak in a walk-in beer cooler can result in the displacement of oxygen, leading to oxygen deficiency for anyone inside the space. Inhaling high levels of CO2 can cause symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath, and, in extreme cases, can be fatal.
Importance of CO2 Monitors
Early Detection
CO2 monitors are designed to detect even trace amounts of CO2 in the air. Installing these monitors ensures early detection of leaks, allowing for prompt action to prevent dangerous gas concentrations.
Protecting Personnel
Employees who work in or around walk-in beer coolers are at risk if there’s a CO2 leak. A monitor provides an added layer of safety, protecting personnel from potential harm.
Regulation Compliance
In many regions, there are regulations and guidelines that mandate the installation of CO2 monitors in spaces where CO2 is piped. Adhering to these regulations not only ensures the safety of individuals but also helps establishments remain compliant with local safety standards.
Analox’s History in the Industry
Analox Group has worked with beverage and hospitality-related companies for more than 30 years. Our team of engineers and product designers understand the industry and have designed a wide range of products created exclusively to meet beverage and hospitality industry challenges.
The Analox product line is diverse and designed to handle virtually all beverage and hospitality needs. The portable Aspida unit, designed for personal protection of beverage gas delivery drivers, became a market leader in the industry. Analox also created the CO2Buddy personal detector specifically to protect individuals in ever-changing workplace environments.
Analox built on the technological success of those units and introduced the Ax60+ in 2014. This highly scalable monitor provides simultaneous CO2 and O2 analysis from multiple locations. The Ax60+ Kiosk model, which was designed for operations with free-standing kiosks soon followed.
Today, there are more than 100,000 Analox units in use in beverage and hospitality outlets delivering unmatched safety and protection to customers and workers in this multi-billion dollar industry.
Who Uses Analox in the Food & Beverage Industry?
The Analox Ax60+ is built for flexibility and performance. The Ax60+ is currently in use worldwide including high profile venues like SOFI Stadium in Los Angeles (home of Super Bowl LVI), Chase Center in San Francisco, and Truist Park in Atlanta, Georgia. Ax60+ units are also used in Tickenham Stadium, as well as other high-profile sporting venues such as international cricket, international football, and Premier League stadiums. Analox products are installed in two of the three largest retail chains in North America – Target and Costco. These establishments both feature self-service beverage dispensers along with quick-serve food options.
Several of the world’s largest fast-food restaurant chains, including McDonald’s, use the Ax60+. The well-known Mitchells & Butler restaurant group incorporates Analox products and technology into their building design and safety protocols for more than a dozen different brands throughout the United Kingdom.
Conclusion
In the hospitality industry, safety should always be a priority. Whether your walk-in beer cooler has piped CO2 or not, understanding the stipulations for CO2 monitors is crucial. By taking the necessary precautions and installing these monitors where required, establishments can create a safer environment for both employees and customers, ensuring that the focus remains on enjoying good beer responsibly.
For more information on our gas analyzers and monitors, as well as details regarding how we can help improve the safety of workers on your site with a custom setup, please contact us directly.