RKI Portable Multi Gas Monitors
RKI Instruments provides a range of portable multi-gas monitors used to detect a wide range of hazardous gases, including the lower explosive limit (LEL) of oxygen (O2), Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Methane (CH4), combustibles, or some combination of the five, in real time. These monitors are designed to alert workers when hazardous gases surpass the acceptable limit, so they can evacuate the area as quickly as possible, thus reducing their chances of possible exposure. The devices will issue an audible, visual, and vibrating alarm for maximum employee awareness.
These monitors can be worn on the person’s jacket, collar, lapel, or emergency bag for EMT workers. Every monitor comes with a rechargeable battery that will last at least 18 hours or more, giving the user plenty of time to complete their shift. It should be placed in the breathing zone, or the ten-inch diameter around the person’s nose and mouth, to improve monitoring accuracy.
RKI Instruments is known for making some of the most reliable multi-gas monitors on the market today including the rki-gx2009, rki gx-3r, and the rki gx-2012. They are ideal for confined spaces and are made with high-quality parts and electrochemical sensors for improved accuracy. Select devices come with multi--year warranties, which covers the cost of repairs and replacement sensors.
How do you use a portable gas detector?
To use a RKI portable gas monitor, you must turn the device on and perform a bump test to ensure the alarm is working properly and will respond when exposed to a target gas. To do this you will need to expose the detector to the target gas(es) from a cylinder of test gas and see if the alarm goes off. If the test gas triggers the alarm, the device is working properly. If the alarm doesn’t go off, the device may need to be repaired or recalibrated. Calibration tests the accuracy of the gas monitor and should be done at least every six months or when necessary.
How do you calibrate a multi-gas detector?
To calibrate a gas detector, start by turning the device on and zeroing the meter. You will then need to expose the device to a cylinder of calibration gas. Every cylinder comes with a set amount of gas. The volume of gas inside the cylinder can change over time, so be sure that the cylinder hasn’t expired. Insert the cylinder into the gas monitor and compare the readings on the monitor to what’s listed on the calibration gas cylinder. If the reading on the device matches the quantity listed on the cylinder, the monitor is working properly. If the readings are off, reset the sensor on the device and repeat the process until the two readings are the same.
How often does a gas monitor need to be calibrated?
We recommend calibrating your gas monitor at least every six months, or when your bump test fails. . The readings on the sensor are bound to change over time. If the sensor is off, the device will produce inaccurate readings that could put workers at risk. Plugging your devices into a docking station will automatically bump test or recalibrate the device after each shift.
Contact the team at PK Safety to find the right RKI portable multi-gas monitor for your work environment.