Indoor Air Quality
Sensgreen Partner
Nexelec & ISTA
Location
Abu Dhabi
Applications
CO Monitoring, Reporting & Creating Notification and Alarm Systems
Background
The governmental building in Abu Dhabi, which is over 20 years old, serves as a crucial hub for various administrative functions. This facility, home to at least 250 employees, operates continuously to ensure the seamless execution of essential governmental activities.
Maintaining optimal air quality, particularly about carbon monoxide (CO) levels, is vital in such a densely occupied and continuously operating facility. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can pose serious health risks if not properly monitored and managed. Ensuring CO levels remain within safe limits is essential for all occupants’ health and safety and compliance with local air quality standards and regulations in the UAE.
Challenges
Building Age and Structural Constraints
Due to strict regulations, the building’s age and status as a heritage or government property prevent structural modifications, such as cracking walls for new installations.
Security Concerns
The strict security protocols in place prevent integration of new systems into the building’s existing network. This requires a solution that operates independently, without needing to connect to the building’s internal systems or networks.
Immediate Alert Requirements
The facility management team needs to receive immediate alerts if there are any unusual spikes in carbon monoxide levels. This is crucial for prompt action to ensure the safety of the building’s occupants and to maintain air quality standards.
Reporting for Compliance
The facility management team must regularly report carbon monoxide levels to demonstrate compliance with local air quality standards and regulations in the UAE.
Solution
Sensor Selection, Deployment & Registration
Nexelec CO sensors are chosen for their proven reliability and advanced capabilities. Nexelec’s sensors are renowned for their precision and durability, essential in critically monitoring CO levels to ensure safety and compliance with stringent health standards. These sensors utilize LoRaWAN technology, which offers extended range and low power consumption, making them ideal for deployment in large or complex building layouts without frequent maintenance.
Ista deployed LoRaWAN Nexelec carbon monoxide sensors throughout the governmental building, strategically placing them in locations prone to higher CO levels or with limited ventilation. This comprehensive placement ensures no area is left unmonitored, providing a complete safety net.
Each carbon monoxide sensor was registered on the Sensgreen Platform, allowing for real-time data collection and continuous monitoring. This step is crucial for integrating the physical hardware within the digital ecosystem of the building’s IoT infrastructure.
Network Setup
We have installed LoRaWAN gateways equipped with 5G connectivity throughout the governmental building to ensure seamless data transmission from the Nexelec CO sensors to the central Sensgreen Platform. We acknowledge the facility’s strict security protocols, which prevent integration with the building’s existing network. Therefore, our setup uses an independent and secure 5G-enabled LoRaWAN network. This approach enables us to maintain the integrity and security of the building’s network infrastructure while ensuring efficient and isolated data communication.
Sensgreen Platform Configuration
- Alert & Notification System: Sensgreen Platform was configured to send immediate alerts via WhatsApp messages and emails to the facility management team upon detection of any spike in CO levels. This enabled the management team to react swiftly to potential hazards, enhancing the safety protocols within the building.
- Data Reporting: We also set up automated reporting within the Sensgreen Platform. This feature systematically tracks and documents CO levels, essential for maintaining compliance with local air quality standards in the UAE. These reports are accessible in real time and can be used for historical data analysis and regulatory reviews.
Results
30% Improvement in the Detection andResponse Times
Better response times to carbon monoxide incidents, enhancing the safety protocols within the building.
Decreased Response Times From 30 Minutes to 5 Minutes
Real-time alerts has decreased the average response time to potential CO spikes, substantially reducing the risk of CO poisoning among building occupants.
100% Compliance with the UAE’s Air Quality Standards
Automated reporting has ensured 100% compliance, as the facility management team can now document and verify air quality levels with ease.