Embodiments relate generally to methods and systems for sensing and communicating characteristics of a work environment. A communication system may comprise one or more of the following one or more low cost sensor unit (LCSU) configured to detect one or more characteristics of the environment; one or more portable gas detector configured to be carried by a worker in the work environment, and comprising at least one sensor element, a display, and a wireless communication module; and one or more mobile device to be carried by a worker in the work environment, and comprising a display and a wireless communication module, wherein at least one of the portable gas detector and the mobile device is configured to receive sensed data from the one or more low cost sensor unit, process the received sensed data, and display the received sensed data to the worker.