Smiths Detection Multi-Sensor Handheld Chemical Identifier

Smiths Detection has come up with another revolutionary tool in safety technology. To avoid changing any of the technical aspects of the article, I’ll just give you the press release verbatim.

Smiths Detection, part of the global technology business Smiths Group, today announced the launch of the multi-sensor handheld Hazardous Gas and Vapor Identifier (HGVI™) to the first responder market in the United States. In addition to its multiple sensors, the HGVI utilizes Smiths Detection’s unique H-Fusion™ (Hazard-Fusion) decision enhancement software that will revolutionize how accurately and quickly first responders can identify unknown toxic industrial chemicals, chemical warfare agents and gamma radiation.

“The HGVI combines cutting edge engineering with trusted technology to fill the gap in first response chemical threat assessment,” said Stephen Phipson, Group Managing Director, Smiths Detection. “First Responders know and trust Smiths Detection. We’re committed to continuing to work closely with First Responders, providing them with solutions needed for their comprehensive threat assessment.”

Designed by Smiths Detection in conjunction with first response teams, the HGVI’s multi-sensor technology reduces false positives and improves analytical accuracy by looking at a chemical with a versatile sensor technology. H-Fusion Software integrated into the HGVI, then translates the data into one reliable result, thereby increasing the confidence a first responder gains from the chemical identification.

The HGVI’s multiple sensors are built on Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS), Photoionization Detection (PID), and Taguchi Gas Sensors (TGS).

“The purpose behind multi-sensors is to leverage the benefits of versatile detection sensors in order to look at an unknown substance from a number of different ways,” said Mark Gordon, General Manager and Vice President of Commercial and Non-federal Government business. “H-Fusion, the brain driving the HGVI, is critical in aiding first responders in making informed, conversant decisions while mitigating an incident by providing them with the most likely identification. This advanced software, combined with multi-sensor technology makes the HGVI the most reliable, handheld gas and vapor identification method available in the field”.

Smiths Detection’s First Responder Tools

The HGVI expands Smiths Detection’s product line of portable First Responder solutions including: the HazMatID, GasID, LCD-FR and RespondeR RCI. Smiths Detection’s first responder solutions provide an unparalleled level of detection which includes: toxic industrial chemicals, suspicious white powders, illicit drugs, nerve and blister agents, weapons of mass destruction, volatile organic compounds, chemical warfare agents, explosives, pesticides, and flammables and non-flammables.

I am, of course, a fan of anything that can potentially make business travel safer. If you come across one of these products in your travels, don’t be surprised.