Bump testing is one of those topics that crops up again and again, but still not everyone gets the point. A gas detector may not respond properly to gas for many reasons. Bump testing is a quick and easy way to ensure yours does. Here is just one example of what can happen if you don’t bump test your equipment.
Gas detection is a critical safety function in many industries, to protect people from harm and avoid costly plant disruption or damage. Not only must you use a suitable instrument for the task and the environment, but it must be used correctly and maintained properly if it is to fully serve its purpose.
Gas detectors are there to save your life, whether it is a fixed system or a portable detector, keeping them well maintained is an important part of ownership.
Our guest blogger this week, Julian, has put together simple steps to ensure your gas detector is up for the job as and when it’s required.
Continue reading “The simple steps to looking after your gas detection equipment this winter.”
I’ve talked about bump testing your instrument, so it seems natural that we now cover the importance of calibrating.
There are two main reasons for calibration. Firstly, gas detectors often operate in harsh environments: high and low temperatures and/or humidities; they may be exposed to contaminants, such as solvents, silicone etc; gas exposure; as well as the age of a sensor; any of which can result in the degree to which the detector responds to a given gas concentration changing, for example, the detector may read 46% LEL when the true level is 50% LEL.
There are lots of reasons why a portable gas detector may not react to gas, some of which may not be obvious when you pick up a unit. The safest way to make sure your gas monitor is working is to ‘bump’ test it.
Continue reading “Why do I need to bump test my instrument?”
