Crowcon safety experts are warning of a hidden but potentially deadly risk in pubs, restaurants, and breweries: pressurised CO₂ and mixed-gas systems used for drink carbonation and dispensing.

Several fatal and non-fatal incidents involving CO₂ leaks have occurred over the years. In 2010, a hotel worker died after being overcome by a CO₂ leak while taking in a delivery of beer kegs.

These incidents highlight the importance of portable gas detectors, particularly in the hospitality and brewing sectors. Drinks systems are often stored in confined, poorly ventilated areas, meaning leaks can go undetected, especially as CO₂ is both odourless and colourless.

Ed Clapham, Product Manager at Crowcon Detection Instruments, outlines the risks associated with CO₂ and mixed gas leaks in licensed venues, and how operators can protect staff, maintenance teams and customers ahead of the busy trading season.

“In the hospitality and brewing industries, gas detectors play a vital role in protecting everyone involved in day-to-day operations, from frontline staff and delivery drivers to gas cylinder suppliers, MRO teams, cleaning contractors, and even customers.

“Regardless of whether they’re employed directly by the business, a gas leak can pose a serious risk to anyone on-site.

“This is why gas detectors are vital in areas where there is a higher risk of CO₂ exposure. The air we normally breathe contains around 20.9% oxygen.

“If there’s a gas leak, oxygen levels can drop below 19.5%, the threshold for an unsafe atmosphere. Even a slight drop can cause dizziness, reduced alertness, and poor coordination. People may not immediately realise they’re impaired, which makes the situation even more dangerous.

“The lower the oxygen level and the higher the CO₂ concentration, the more life-threatening the exposure becomes. In one such case in 2006, a brewery technician died after being overcome by CO₂ during routine maintenance.”

An invisible hazard with real-world consequences 

“CO₂ is not only undetectable to human senses, it’s also heavier than air, meaning even small leaks can accumulate at floor level and displace oxygen. If left unchecked, this can pose serious health risks to anyone exposed, including unconsciousness or death.

“There are strict compliance requirements within the food and beverage industry, particularly around confined spaces where gas systems are typically installed.

“In the case of cellars, the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 classify these as confined spaces due to the potential for hazardous atmospheres. Employers are therefore required to test the atmosphere before entry, monitor it continuously while occupied, and provide appropriate safety equipment such as portable gas detectors.

“Additionally, the Health and Safety Executive classifies CO₂ as a ‘substance hazardous to health’ under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH). This places a duty on employers to identify hazards such as CO₂, carry out risk assessments, implement controls like ventilation and detection, train staff, and regularly review those measures.

“Employers also have legal obligations under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. These regulations impose general duties to assess and manage risks, which includes installing gas detection and control measures in cellars, or ensuring anyone entering the space is equipped with a portable gas detector.

The role of portable gas detectors 

“This is where portable gas detection becomes critical. These wearable devices provide real-time air quality monitoring and alert users instantly if gas levels reach dangerous thresholds, filling the gap left by compliance frameworks.

“Unlike fixed wall-mounted systems, portable detectors are worn by staff as they work in basements, cellars, or other confined areas. If a leak occurs, from a faulty regulator, damaged tube, or during cylinder replacement, the device sounds an immediate alarm, allowing the user to evacuate safely before conditions deteriorate.

“In hospitality environments, this equipment can make a significant difference. It helps prevent minor incidents escalating into major emergencies, and supports risk reduction, legal protection, and operational continuity.”

A practical safeguard for operators

“As the hospitality sector moves into busier trading periods, with Halloween and Christmas around the corner, the need for proactive safety measures becomes even more critical.

“Portable gas detectors offer a simple, cost-effective way for businesses to demonstrate responsibility and mitigate risk.

“Portable gas detectors give workers confidence that the air they’re breathing is safe, every shift. For hospitality operators, they’re not just a compliance add-on, they’re a way to protect staff, ensure business continuity, and show genuine duty of care.”

Benefits of portable gas detection in hospitality venues

  • Staff safety: As mentioned, portable detectors protect employees working in enclosed, low-ventilation areas, helping to prevent serious health incidents.
  • Business continuity: Early detection of gas leaks helps avoid emergency shutdowns, loss of earnings, and service disruption during peak times.
  • Regulatory assurance: Combined with PSSR compliance, portable detection demonstrates to inspectors and enforcement bodies that a venue is going beyond minimum standards.
  • Reputation management: Insurers, investors, and the public expect visible commitment to health and safety. Wearable gas detection provides a clear signal that these expectations are being met, nobody wants to order a cold pint with a gas leak.
  • Cost-efficiency: Compared to the potential cost of accidents, legal action, or reputational damage, investing in portable detection offers strong ROI and peace of mind.

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