Specialists at the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI have developed a portable badge capable of detecting the concentration of hazardous compounds in the air of the working area. The device is intended for employees of enterprises who come into contact with potentially harmful substances, reports the website infohub.kz.
The device, resembling a medallion, is meant to be worn throughout the entire shift. It operates in two modes. In the first mode, the badge continuously monitors the air and, upon detecting a dangerous component, instantly sends a signal to the dispatcher. In the second mode, the device works as a passive accumulator: an absorbent inside captures impurities from the air. At the end of the workday, the accumulated substances are extracted and analyzed using special detectors, allowing to determine which compounds the employee was exposed to and in what quantities.
As project leader Yulia Shaltaeva explained, most existing gas analyzers are of the active type, meaning their sensors constantly analyze the air. The MEPhI development in one of its variants is a passive cartridge that does not conduct analysis itself but only collects harmful substances. The study of the collected material is carried out after the shift ends. This approach makes the device cheaper and more accessible.
The scientists plan to integrate data from the devices into federal information systems for monitoring working conditions. After testing is completed, the development is expected to be implemented at enterprises.
Earlier it was reported that starting July 28, 2026, Kazakhstan began free lung cancer screening for high-risk groups, including workers in hazardous industries.