A STOKESLEY company’s life-saving new product has instantly been shortlisted for an award that champions “World Class Science”.

Analox Sensor Technology’s (AST’s) O2NE+ oxygen depletion monitor detects potential build-ups of speciality gases used in laboratories.

Inert gases, such as nitrogen, argon and helium, are widely used in laboratories and a range of industrial processes.

It saves lives by alerting staff to falling oxygen levels and has been nominated in the new product category in the S-Lab Awards which promote best practice in laboratory design, operation and management. They are organised by the S-Lab (Safe, Successful, Sustainable Laboratories) initiative.

The award winners will be announced at a dinner in London on September 1.

Among the O2NE+’s key features are easy installation and minimal maintenance requirements. It only needs calibrating every 18 months and its oxygen (O2) sensor can last up to ten years. A repeater alarm can be fitted to provide early warning before anyone enters the room.

Unlike many other O2 depletion monitors which can be affected by helium, the O2NE+ will provide accurate readings if helium is present.

Simon Lunt, AST sales and marketing director, said they work closely with their clients and industries.

“The O2NE+ has evolved as a result of this close work and research,” he said. “It is testament to its importance in laboratory environments that it has been recognised as worthy of an award, and is nominated alongside some ground-breaking new products.

“Employers have a duty of care to their staff and visitors and asked us to design a simple, accurate and cost-effective solution to ensure lives are protected.”