Rules of Gas Detection

1. Test

Before you use your instrument, it is important that you know that the sensor and alarms will function properly. The only way that you can be sure of this is to expose your instrument to a known concentration of gas and verify that it responds correctly. A bump test prior to each day's use assures you that your gas detector will save your life if you are in danger.

2. Calibrate

Conditions such as temperature, humidity, age and gas exposure will all affect the output of your sensor. Calibrating your instrument compensates for these factors and guarantees that your readings are accurate. You can attain the highest accuracy by calibrating your gas detector on a regular schedule. Do this at least on a monthly basis.

3. Review Data

Almost all gas detectors in use today provide some form of datalogging. Information stored in your gas detector can provide keen insight into potential problems that may be hiding in your work environment. You may find cases of alarms with no reports or find conditions where gas concentrations exist just below the alarm thresholds of the instruments. Most data reviews take place only after an accident occurs. A weekly review of data gives you the opportunity to find potential danger points and correct them before tragedy strikes.