What type of equipment is typically used for enclosed space entry testing?

The use of multi-gas monitors and detector tubes for enclosed space entry testing is essential due to their ability to measure and identify the presence of a variety of hazardous gases, including oxygen levels, flammable gases, and toxic substances such as carbon monoxide or hydrogen sulfide. This equipment is specifically designed for assessing the safety of an environment before entry, ensuring that the space is safe for personnel.

Multi-gas monitors come equipped with sensors that can detect multiple gases simultaneously, providing a comprehensive analysis of the atmosphere within the enclosed space. Detector tubes complement these monitors by allowing for spot checks of specific gases, giving operators valuable data regarding potential hazards.

In contrast, while smoke detectors are effective for identifying smoke from combustion, they are not suitable for testing atmospheric conditions in enclosed spaces where chemical hazards might be present. Carbon dioxide sensors specifically monitor CO2 levels but do not provide a full picture of other possible dangerous gases. Infrared thermometers are designed to measure temperature, not gas concentrations, making them irrelevant in assessing the safety of an enclosed space in terms of gas hazards. Thus, multi-gas monitors and detector tubes are the most appropriate and comprehensive tools for ensuring safety during enclosed space entry.