A personal gas monitor is a device that helps you monitor the amount of gas in a particular area. It measures toxic and combustible gases and hydrogen sulfide in confined spaces. Some monitors even have a screen that displays maintenance reminders. This feature allows you to see when your monitor needs a maintenance check before it starts to cause problems.
Typical measurement levels for toxic and combustible gases
If you use a personal single gas monitor, you can easily identify dangerous concentrations of toxic and combustible gases. Toxic gases, like carbon monoxide, can be life-threatening if they reach levels of 100 parts per million (ppm). The LEL for combustible gases is 40,000 ppm. In confined spaces, where the concentration of these gases can quickly reach dangerous levels, you need to take precautions.
Typical measurement levels for hydrogen sulfide
Hydrogen sulfide is a naturally occurring gas that is detected in a wide range of environments. It is a toxic gas and must be monitored to ensure that regulatory limits are met. Hydrogen sulfide levels in natural gas can vary from a few parts per million (ppm) to more than 100 ppm. It is most harmful at higher concentrations, and even lower concentrations may be irritating. A personal gas monitor can measure this gas and alert you if the concentration reaches a certain level.
Typical measurement levels for hydrogen sulfide in confined spaces
The typical measurement level of hydrogen sulfide in a confined space is 100 parts per million (ppm). This level is considered an immediate danger to life and health, and exposure causes changes in the sense of smell and breathing in less than two minutes. Exposures at higher levels, such as 500 or 700 ppm, can result in altered respiration or loss of consciousness. Unless a worker receives emergency medical care, exposure can lead to death within 30 to 60 minutes without proper ventilation.
Maintenance of a gas monitor
Ensure the accuracy of gas detection by performing frequent calibrations of personal gas monitors. Accurate readings from gas monitors are essential for safe work and avoid worker injury. Calibration testing should be performed at least monthly and preferably every eight hours. It is important to keep detailed records of maintenance to determine when to replace the instrument.
Typical measurement levels for CO
If you are concerned about the health risks of CO exposure, it is important to get a personal gas monitor. CO is a byproduct of combustion that can be deadly in high concentrations. Typically, CO levels in the surrounding air will range from two to six parts per million (ppm). If you suspect that you have a problem, you should use a CO detector to detect it.
Typical measurement levels for NO2
Typical measurement levels for NO2 detected by personal gas monitors are based on a standard set by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). The standard states that direct-reading gas monitoring instruments must be accurate to +/ 25% of the target analytic concentration with 95% confidence. A personal gas monitor should not be used if the sensor does not meet this standard.
Typical measurement levels for SO2
SO2 is a dangerous gas, and personal gas monitors are an important part of any industrial or agricultural workplace. This gas has a range of symptoms, including olfactory fatigue, respiratory tract irritation, and paralysis. Long-term exposure can lead to fatalities. Even short-term exposure can cause rapid unconsciousness, which can last less than two minutes.
Typical measurement levels for H2S
A personal gas monitor that measures hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is an important safety device. H2S is a dangerous gas in many industries, including manufacturing, gas and agriculture. Fortunately, manufacturers now offer a wide range of personal gas monitors, which follow the OSHA standard for safety devices.
