Inadequate maintenance of your facility’s gas detectors can lull you into a false sense of security. Verify that your gas detectors can accurately detect gas concentrations and alert workers of danger. Use these tips for maintaining your gas monitoring system.

Bump Test the Sensor and Alarm

Gas monitors can become damaged by environmental factors like humidity, temperature, and dust. Dropping the monitor can dislodge sensitive components and affect the monitor’s functionality. A bump test verifies the monitor can detect the target gas and that the device’s alarms work.

To perform the test, expose the detector to the target gas at a concentration greater than the alarm set points. Manufacturers of some monitors make docking stations that can perform bump tests and document the data in a database. Follow your manufacturer’s recommendations for testing intervals.

Calibrate the Device

Bump tests measure the detector’s sensor and alarm functionality, but they do not measure its accuracy. Gas monitoring devices must give accurate gas concentration readings to protect workers from illness, injury, or death. Calibrating the device is essential for verifying its accuracy.

How To Calibrate

To calibrate the monitor, expose it to a known concentration of calibration gas. You can calibrate the detector manually or with a docking station. The calibration reading will verify or update the gas detector’s reference point.

Follow your device manufacturer’s recommendations for calibration intervals. In general, you should calibrate the monitor every three to six months or if a bump test indicates an issue with the sensor.

Inspect and Clean the Gas Monitor

Another tip for maintaining your gas monitoring system is to inspect and clean the device regularly. Check for cracks or broken pieces. If the monitor has tubing, ensure the tubes have no kinks or cuts.

Most monitors have a filter that will protect the internal components from dirt, liquids, and other debris. The monitor manufacturer provides instructions for checking the filter and replacing it. Depending on your device, you can replace the filter by opening a plate on the device, then using tweezers to remove the old filter and insert the new one.

Replace When Needed

How long your gas monitor lasts depends on maintenance quality and factors unique to your application. Temperature, humidity, mechanical shocks, and exposure to extremely high gas concentrations affect the sensor’s lifespan.

You should replace the detector if it becomes less sensitive, takes a long time to respond, or reaches the end of its estimated lifespan. TG Technical Services carries portable gas monitors, fixed gas monitors, and calibration gases—shop with us today for reliable safety gear.