This article will answer some important questions about bump testing gas monitors and ensuring that the reading you're getting from the accurately reflects the atmosphere you're working in.
A bump test is a quick procedure in which a gas monitor is exposed to a known concentration of a target gas to ensure that the gas triggers the alarm at the set level. To be on the safe side, most employers codify in their policy that a gas detecting instrument must be tested daily, before starting work in a potentially hazardous atmosphere. This will surely satisfy OSHA requirements and give the employee peace of mind. More frequent exposure, however, will shorten the lifespan of the gas detecting sensors.
Using a gas mix that is the same brand as the monitor you're calibrating is always indicated. Generic gas mix brands should be acceptable, however, as long as the concentration of the gases is above the low alarm set point.
The calibration gas and bump test gas are often the same, so when buying your bump test gas, don't worry too much about whether it's labelled a bump gas or a calibration gas. It's better to look instead for the proper concentration of gases, your preferred canister size, and delivery method flow valve or manual trigger. Although they use the same gas, it's important to always remember that bump testing is not the same as calibration and is not an appropriate substitute when calibration is required.
Each gas cylinder has a set expiration date. This is because some of the gases in the mix are reactive and will either leach through the cylinder or react with the cylinder material. This is also the reason these canisters are not refilled. After the period indicated on the canister usually 24 months, but only 12 in some cases , the concentration of the gases cannot be guaranteed and using it could result in calibration and bump test errors.
It's a good idea, then, not to buy more gas than you need and to use your cylinders in a FIFO first in, first out cycle. Gas canisters come in sizes that range from small 5L bottles to L cylinders. The right size canister for your operation will depend on the number of instruments you have to test and how often you need to test them, while ensuring the gas doesn't expire before you get to use it.
Conversely, an organization with tens or hundreds of monitors all dispatched from the same location could save costs by using large cylinders at their bump testing station. When comparing practicality or time commitment, there is little difference among these methods of administering the gas.
All will be fairly quick. A few bursts of gas on the sensor after the bump testing sequence is initiated might be the quickest of them, but this might expose the sensors to more gas than necessary, shortening their life span.
Also, because of little control over how much gas releases it might also use more gas. Because of this, this method will be costlier in the long run. Using a flow valve with a flow of 0. Regardless of how often you bump test your gas monitor and what method you use for bump testing, you should keep.
Your bump test log should record:. These days, most units will provide a visual indicator a check mark, an "OK," or some other symbol , this mark is soon deleted and you will be hard pressed to demonstrate compliance if you have no record of the testing. A logbook is also a convenient way to verify that all units have been bump tested. If you have five field employees using monitors and only four records in the logbook, you'll know to double check that all monitors have been tested.
Karoly has worked at a senior level both as an employee and a contractor for organizations in the construction and manufacturing industries. He has a passion for developing and improving health and safety programs. Subscribe to the Safeopedia newsletter to stay on top of current industry trends and up-to-date know-how from subject matter authorities. Our comprehensive online resources are dedicated to safety professionals and decision makers like you.
By: Daniel Clark. By: Tamara Parris CD. Dictionary Dictionary Term of the Day. You can also carry out a manual test using a cylinder of test gas and a regulator. How you choose to go about bump testing depends on the size of your company and, of course, on your budget. Automatic Test Station. Manual system. Legislation and Training. The legislation surrounding bump testing is very vague. There is no law requiring mandatory bump testing, but most manufacturers advise it.
Another challenge of bump testing gas detectors is good training. Luckily, gas detection companies will offer a wide array of training resources, and trainers can travel to your location. There are also videos, articles and other resources online to help you learn how to use your gas detectors safely and effectively.
It really can save lives…. With the right equipment, training and repetition, bump testing will become as easy and routine as using a seat belt in your car. Posted in Knowledgebase.
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