Exam Question

Petroleum vapours pose significant fire and explosion hazards within maritime environments, particularly in enclosed spaces like cargo tanks, pump rooms, cofferdams, and void spaces. An explosimeter, also known as a catalytic combustion gas indicator, is a crucial safety device used to accurately measure the concentration of flammable gases or vapours in the atmosphere, expressed as a percentage of the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL).
### (a) An explosimeter or combustion gas indicator which can be used to check the atmosphere of a tank or pump room
An explosimeter is a portable electronic device specifically designed to detect and quantify the concentration of flammable gases and vapours, such as those emanating from petroleum products, in the air. Its primary function on board vessels is to assess the potential for an explosive atmosphere, thereby ensuring the safety of personnel before entry into enclosed spaces or before hot work operations.
**1. Purpose and Application:**