Marine gas hazards are numerous and can be present in a wide range of marine applications.

The marine industry is highly regulated due to the potential hazards that can be found, and legislation includes guidance on specific certifications that are required so portable devices can be used within marine applications:

• Within European Union (EU) Member States portable gas detectors need to be certified to the Marine Equipment Directive (MED)

SOLAS requirements for atmosphere testing instruments agreed:

The 18th session of the IMO Sub-Committee on the Carriage of Dangerous Goods, Solid Cargoes and Containers (DSC 18) took place from 16 to 20 September 2013. The Sub-Committee agreed a new draft SOLAS regulation XI-1/7 on Atmosphere testing instrument for enclosed spaces, to require ships to carry an appropriate portable atmosphere testing instrument or instruments, capable of measuring concentrations of oxygen, flammable gases or vapours, hydrogen sulphide and carbon monoxide, prior to entry into enclosed spaces. Full report details

• In some ports and countries across the World it is recommended that portable gas detectors are certified to the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS).