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The BW GasAlert Max XT II is a humdinger of a detector, both for its ease of usage and reasonable price. In my opinion, this is the best gas detector to buy if you’re entering a confined space or septic tank. This one button unit makes it perfect for both the glove crowd and the technologically challenged. Plus, its simple operation makes tampering with its functions nearly impossible (a helpful feature if you want to ensure that you crew doesn’t decide to change any o the setting without …

If your company is searching for personal hydrogen sulfide (H2S) single gas monitors, here's a quick run-down of the best disposable monitors on the market. We find there are two basic groups of people buying portable single gas monitors, those who want the best price and those who want the best monitor for a discount. The reigning champion of these devices in the inexpensive group is still the BW Clip from BW Honeywell. This lightweight device has a standard measuring range of 0-100 …

Gas measurement is without a doubt the most important part of confined space safety. Do it right, and you and your crew go home at the end of the day—do it wrong, and you might never go home again! So if you're a newbie (or even a little rusty), you've got to do your homework. Here's the first lesson: get the right tools! If you already have a gas monitor, take it out and look at it. Without this device you are nothing! It always has to be with you in any confined space — no excuses! But m …

We've had several questions lately about our UEi Test Instruments and it seems like a good time to review these smart, relatively inexpensive gas detecting devices. Unlike our more robust industrial gas detection units that need to meet OSHA guidelines for gas detection, the UEi units are mainly designed to meet the needs of HVAC professionals and for individuals who want to get to the bottom of a home or RV gas leak. Carbon Monoxide (CO) detection is something that falls into both t …

It's always tough to be the new guy on the crew. But it used to be far worse. As fuel requirements started soaring during the industrial revolution, exposure to dangerous methane gas increased. Since it's odorless, the standard operating procedure was to send the new guy down with a lit torch and a wet blanket draped over them. Small pockets would ignite, and big pockets would necessitate a new volunteer. The next stage in the evolution of gas detection was the famous canary in a coa …

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a deadly gas common at many industrial work sites. It must be handled carefully because its toxicity is similar to cyanide, and even slight exposure comes with a host of health concerns. Where does it come from? H2S has few industrial applications on its own, but can be used to harvest sulfur, one of the most useful and versatile elements in the industry. It is commonly sourced from natural gas and petroleum deposits for this purpose. Even if you do …

What Kind of Confined Space Gas Detector Do I Need? Before entering a confined space, workers need to check the environment to make sure it is safe. Confined spaces often harbor toxic or explosive gasses. They may also be lacking in oxygen.  Gas detectors serve as a first line of defense in determining the safety of an environment. The most important feature to look for in a confined space gas detector is 4 gas detection. This means it can detect and measure CO2, O2, H2S and combusti …

Gas detection is serious business no matter what type of work you do. Your company may not need the level of protection a petroleum production facility requires, but every company using gas detection technology wants to make a good investment in their monitors. Some work sites need to know if hydrogen sulfide levels change even a small percentage. Others are fine waiting for the alarm to sound. The differences in your gas monitoring needs will affect the type of gas monitor that's right for y …

I’m fascinated about the basics of atmospheric monitoring, how to change the air in a confined space by supplying ventilation, and effective uses of ducting. Aren’t you? Relying solely on your nose (no matter how magnificent it may be) is not the right method to detect airborne hazards. Many gases dull the senses over time, and only a proper gas detection unit with a test probe can properly asses the atmosphere of a confined space. The shape and location of many confined spaces make them …

At PK Safety we're as worried about the Zombie Apocalypse as anybody. Maybe more. And while we lack chainsaws or longswords in our warehouse, we make up for it with loads of other nifty and useful equipment. Whether you're running for your life, or looking for the cure, PK Safety should definitely be on your to-do list before the web disappears for all eternity. First of all, think about picking up a DoseRAE 2 Personal Radiation Detector. This is especially important for you heroes e …