Why are Portable Gas Detector Calibration and Servicing Important?

 People who use gas detectors often wonder about the importance of timely calibration. According to gas monitor experts, the frequency of calibrations needs to be in accordance with the frequency of use. The more you use a gas detector, the more calibration it needs. Unfortunately, the professionals who use gas detectors the most don’t receive proper training. Confined space workers receive standard CSE training (Confined Space Entry) training. These training programs don’t teach students how to develop calibration frequencies. Not learning this vital skill is very risky. Confined space workers can face hazards like malfunctioning equipment inside intense workspaces.

Learning the Art of Calibration

Professional-grade portable gas detector calibration is a very complex process. Confined space workers essentially have to re-establish the accuracy of their gas monitoring machines’ sensors. These sensors endure a lot of abuse - exposure to gases, harsh environmental conditions, wear, and tear, etc. They can fail in critical times because of this abuse. Timely calibrations ensure that the gas detectors work accurately at all times. The process of zeroing the gas detector and then calibrating it is very complex. Plus, confined space workers have to make these calibrations two to three times a week. A hundred percent precision in each calibration session is vital. Or else, the gas detectors can stop giving accurate readings.

The Importance of Servicing

Servicing gas detectors is a key part of confined space entry safety protocols. What if the legal system uses the data from these devices as legal evidence? Confined space workers have no excuses not to regularly calibrate and service their gas detectors. Their employers should pay for yearly inspections and servicing. All confined space workers must obtain third-party training on how to calibrate gas monitoring equipment!