Portable gas detection monitors represent a critical safety component used in many industries to protect employees, people in nearby areas, and the environment in the event of a noxious gas leak. Gas leaks can happen at any time, and the best way to prevent adverse effects is to recognize leaks and mitigate them as quickly as possible. Therefore, a portable gas leak detector can be the first line of defense in preserving the well-being of all nearby life and protecting nearby property.
While there are many portable gas detectors on the market, not all of them are suited to your circumstances and needs. For example, if you’re only concerned with low oxygen environments, you won’t want to purchase a portable multigas detector. However, if there are leak risks from multiple gases in a manufacturing environment, a portable multigas detector may be the perfect tool for your situation. When you begin your search for the right portable gas detector for sale, there are some things you should consider before making a purchase. Read on to learn about a few of the top considerations you should take into account when shopping for a portable gas detector.
Accuracy
Accuracy is of the utmost importance when it comes to portable gas detectors. You want a detector that can accurately measure the presence of gases on your worksite and relay that data in real time. Accuracy, in general, means that the detector can provide measurements that closely resemble the actual concentrations of gases on your site. Good accuracy can be described as readings that are within 5% of the actual concentration of gases present in the work area. Also, sensitivity is a part of accuracy, as you need the detector to measure the presence of gases that are at least equal to the minimum allowable limits.
User-Friendliness
An overly complicated gas detector could be problematic if your operators don’t want to use it or don’t feel comfortable using it. Put yourselves in the shoes of employees who will be using the monitor. If the portable monitor is to be carried all day, would you rather it be heavy or light? Should it be awkward and cumbersome or streamlined and highly portable? Would you rather have a bright display and loud audible alarms or more subtle alert features? Are data displays easy to read and interpret? These are all factors you should consider when selecting a detector.
Cross-Sensitivity
Cross-sensitivity describes the probability of your detector picking up off gases that may confuse it or slow down accurate measurement of the target gas. For example, readings of a target gas could be skewed by the presence of an off gas, which could lead employees to assume the detector has malfunctioned or to ignore readings that appear falsely elevated. Check the cross-sensitivities of the detectors you’re considering and make sure you understand how they can impact readings in a work environment.
Response Time
When you work with potentially dangerous gases, the response time of your detectors is critical. Time can mean the difference between life and death, and in a dangerous situation involving toxic gases, even a few moments can be important in preserving life. Look for detectors with an extremely fast response time. The onset of physical symptoms of exposure to some gases can begin in as little as 30 seconds, so you need a detector that can measure and display data within 15 seconds.
Reliability
A gas detector that can’t be relied upon is almost as dangerous as not having a monitor at all. Because of the nature of the task they perform, you want a reliable gas detector that you can trust to alert you to potentially dangerous situations in the workplace. Only consider detectors from trusted manufacturers that are bolstered by positive reviews. Pay particular attention to information regarding the durability of a detector under consideration. It should perform regardless of weather conditions, temperatures, relative humidity, and air pressure.
If you’re in the market for a portable gas detector, make sure you think about these considerations before deciding on a piece of equipment. To purchase portable gas detectors, visit DOD Technologies online or call 815-680-6086.