What Is 4 Gas Monitor Calibration?

4 Gas monitor calibration is the technical task of adjusting the detector to provide a more accurate 4 gas monitor gas reading. Because the sensors may degrade or drift over time, we typically suggest to calibrate your 4 gas monitor between 6 to 12 months. This time period is typical for gas detectors.

Gas calibration is a technical task and requires certain key pieces of equipment. This includes a multi-gas calibration gas bottle, gas regulator, tubing, calibration cap fitting, and your 4 gas detector. You need to confirm with the manufacturer to determine the recommended calibration gas concentration levels and mixtures. For the Forensics Detectors 4 gas monitors, we recommend gas calibration with a mix of CO at 200 ppm, H2S at 25 ppm, O2 at 18%, and Methane at 50%LEL.

Be attentive and calibrate daily if:

The user is employing the device as an analytical tool where accuracy is paramount.
The user is using the device in an extreme environment (temp and humidity extremes create sensor drift).
The user is undertaking an imminently dangerous or extreme application.
Bump testing fails. In this case you must calibrate to make sure the sensors and monitor are able to alarm.
The 4 gas detector is alarming in fresh air. This means that a sensor has potentially drifted past an alarm set-point (the oxygen sensor tends to drift low).
Calibration and bump testing is mandatory because injury or death will occur if the device fails. Take it very seriously.

Also, it is prudent to have a calibration schedule that the owner or employees strictly follow.

How Do I Take Care of My 4 Gas Monitor?
Store your 4 gas detector at a normal room temperature – about 70F with 50%RH (well within operating specifications).
Store it away from electromagnetic or magnetic sources, such as phones.
Store it in a clean environment where no dust or particles exist.
Store it away from any exhaust gas, concentrated vapors, or harsh chemicals.
Clean the casing of your detector with a damp cloth.
Store it in a stable place where there are no vibrations or continuous shaking.

How Do I Properly Use a 4 Gas Monitor?
When operating a 4 gas monitor, there are some important tips to consider. Obviously, be smart and read your product manual. In addition, keep these tips in mind:

Turn ON the 4 gas monitor in fresh air.
Ensure the 4 gas monitor is within its calibration period.
Ensure the 4 gas monitor has been bump tested and validated as operational. Ensure levels have come to baseline. CO, H2S and EX should read 0ppm and O2 should be around 20.9%.
Check alarm set-points. Set your alarms as desired.

If undertaking analytical measurements, keep the unit stationary. Ensure humidity and temperature are also tracked and are as constant as possible.
If using a pump, turning the pump ON/OFF will change the pressure and may affect readings. Take data point readings when either the pump is off or on after 60 seconds so the “pressure change” does not create inaccurate readings.