Top 10 Gas Monitors for Confined Spaces

Explore the best gas monitors for confined spaces. Our top 10 picks feature versatile and feature-packed devices to keep workers safe from hazardous gases.

Over the years, confined space gas detection has witnessed tremendous advances. However, confined space gas monitoring is more than finding a reliable device with the most innovative features. To find the most appropriate device for the job, reviewing and understanding workers’ needs and the spaces they’ll be working in is paramount. Keep this in mind as you scope the perfect device for your required applications.

In no particular order, below are 10 of the best devices for confined space gas detection:

RKI GX-2012

With the GX-2012, you get multiple tools in one lightweight package. One of its best features is that it’s intrinsically safe, and able to sample air from over 50 ft. away thanks to its built-in sample draw pump, making it an excellent tool for sewer entry and other distance-confined space sampling work. It features three operating modes for the following applications: confined space gas monitoring, leak investigation, and underground leak checking. Combined with the optional TC sensor, the GX-2012 can measure 100% volume methane and dynamically auto range from % LEL to % volume.

RKI GX-3R

Weighing only 3.52 ounces, this is the smallest, and lightest confined space gas monitor on the market. It includes a 3-year warranty on the monitor and sensors.The GX-3R utilizes a new generation of micro sensors. The LEL sensor has a unique design with two active filaments in one sensor to increase its resistance to silicone poisoning. If one filament gets poisoned the second filament takes over. Its O2 sensor is electrochemical that has a 3 to 5 year lifespan. H2S and CO are now available in a combo micro sensor. Safety supervisors will appreciate the non-compliance indicator of this monitor.

BW Honeywell GasAlert Max XT II

Portable, durable, user-friendly, and versatile – this confined space multi-gas detector is perfect for oil rig workers, sewer technicians, engineers, firefighters, military personnel, and virtually anyone who works in hazardous spaces.

The GasAlert Max XT II’s four gas sensors can detect hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbon monoxide (CO), oxygen (O2), and the lower explosive limit (LEL) of various combustible/flammable gases. This information is displayed on a bright, backlit LCD screen, allowing workers to monitor their environment no matter how dark the confined space may be.

In addition, its intuitive alerts, vibration options, and 95-decibel alarms ensure workers are aware of potential atmospheric hazards at all times. The GasAlert Max XT II offers value for money that’s hard to match and is one of our most popular multi-gas monitors among customers.

BW Honeywell Icon 4-Gas Detector

During its 2-year fixed life, you won't need to replace sensors or batteries. This 4-gas detector simultaneously monitors oxygen (O2), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), combustible gas (LEL) and choice of either carbon monoxide (CO) or sulfur dioxide (SO2). As its name suggests, this device uses simple icons to notify workers of gas levels in confined spaces. This means no live gas readings for workers to interpret and no need for extensive, time-consuming training. In addition, the Icon has a reliable battery runtime of two months, which means no daily charging and no unexpected downtime.

Each of the Icon’s sensors responds to dangerous gas levels in seconds, even in harsh temperatures. Depending on your needs, you can choose from a four-sensor combination for detecting the following gases:

• Oxygen (O2)
• Hydrogen sulfide (H2S)
• Lower Explosive Levels (LEL) of a variety of combustible gases
• Carbon monoxide (CO)

Simplicity. Versatility. Practicality. That’s what you get with the Icon and why it’s in our list of the best gas detectors for confined spaces.

GfG Microtector II G450

Powerful. That’s what the G450 multi-gas monitor is in a nutshell. Need convincing? Let’s go through its litany of features:

• Four sensors, including an H2S sensor offering 0.1 parts per million (ppm) resolution to comply with the latest threshold limit value requirements
• Its Alkaline Smart Pump allows for two operating modes: diffusion and remote sample-draw
• Features a high-efficiency redundant filter system in addition to a standard external probe with dust and hydrophobic filters
• Completely automatic calibration
• Standard events and data-logging
• Interchangeable battery packs for up to 24 hours of continuous operation
• IP67-rated water resistance

The G450 sensors are backed by a three year warranty, ensuring that the G450 has the lowest cost-of-ownership of any confined space gas detector on the market today. Replacement sensors carry the same three year warranty as the original sensors. When paired with its optional kit, the G450 has everything you’ll ever need for gas testing in confined space.

BW Honeywell BW Flex4

Simultaneously monitor up to four hazardous gases with another versatile option from BW Honeywell. The BW Flex4 may be small and nonintrusive to wear, but its extreme ingress protection enables it to withstand the harshest conditions, including water submersion. It also brings utmost reliability and accuracy, with two months of battery runtime and a low-power infrared LEL sensor immune to silicone poisoning.

It’s compatible with up to 15 different sensors, including optional catalytic LEL sensors, for total protection over the range of traditional applications. It’s also compatible withIntelliDoX instrument management and Honeywell Safety Suite, using Bluetooth for wireless configuration. Simple to use and easy to manage, the BW Flex4 is an excellent option.

BW Honeywell GasAlert MicroClip XL

The GasAlert MicroClip XL is one of the brand’s most popular gas monitors thanks to its portability, reliability, and ease of use. At just 6.7 ounces, this device keeps you safe without weighing you down. Meanwhile, its IP68 rating ensures unmatched water protection – up to 45 minutes at a depth of 1.2 meters so that you can be confident even in the most challenging conditions. Its extended battery life lasts up to 18 hours.

Other features include:

• Reflex™ Technology to ensure sensor responsiveness
• Flashing green IntelliFlash™ light for compliance at a glance
• One-button tamper-proof operation and intuitive LCD icons

The MicroClip XL brings a four-gas monitor in an attractive package with reliable operation and affordable protection.

mPower POLI MP400

The POLI MP400 is a proficient multi-gas detector configured with oxygen-lead-free (O2-LF), LEL, CO, and H2S for confined-space entry compliance. Its four sensor slots are compatible with combination sensors, allowing you to monitor up to six atmospheric hazards. The device and its sensors are backed by a three year warranty.

Other key features include the following:

• Real-time gas concentration readings
• Six months of continuous data logging
• Alarms status for Low, High, TWA (time-weighted average), STEL (short-term exposure limit), and Man-Down alarms
• Smart Sensors store calibration data so they can be swapped in the field
• Optional POLI MonoDock station for automated bump testing and calibration

With its suite of features, the POLI MP400 is one of the best deals you can find.

BW Clip4

The BW Clip4 is designed for two years of runtime without charging, servicing, or battery replacements. Once activated, calibrate it at least every six months to enjoy optimal performance. It also has a warranty for its entire service life, making it one of the most straightforward confined space gas detection solutions.

The BW Clip4 boasts the following features:

• Detects O2, H2S, CO, and LEL of various combustible gases
• Displays real-time gas concentrations
• Built-in concussion-proof boot that’s been tested to last in extreme environments

When you’ve got your hands full in the field, you need a no-hassle confined space sniffer you can count on. And when you have the BW Clip4, you have a gas monitor that’s always on.

BW Honeywell GasAlert MicroClip X3

BW’s MicroClip X3 offers superior cost of ownership, with minimized maintenance and maximized uptime. Its revolutionary oxygen sensor allows for the device to be backed by a three year warranty. It is designed to operate consistently for up to five years – with no replacement costs for its entire lifespan.

The MicroClip X3’s key features include the following:

• 18 hours of continuous runtime from a single full charge
• An automated self-test function that routinely checks sensors’ operating conditions, increasing safety, uptime, and overall worker confidence
• Flashing green IntelliFlash™ light for compliance at a glance

Slim, compact, and easy to wear, the X3 is a capable yet affordable and versatile gas monitor ideal for confined spaces.

About PK Safety

After over 75 years in the safety business, PK Safety has vetted thousands of products designed for worker safety, including gas detectors, confined space gear, fall protection, and respirators. This experience enables us to offer and recommend products with the most dependable technology and the best value for money. 

SHOP CO GAS DETECTION