What You Need to Know About CO Sensors - Part 4 of 4

Last week, in part 3, we discussed some of the nuances of CO sensor operation. This week, let's talk about the importance of training and a basic understanding, not just for using but also for purchasing and recommending CO sensing products for the right applications. 

As mentioned in the previous post, the average user does not have in-depth knowledge of all the possible ways they could harm their sensor, nor are they expected to. This lack of knowledge can often lead to damaged or broken sensors. Users can also be very frustrated by their devices not performing as expected, even though they may not have read the manual or taken the time to understand the maintenance required for their device.

Many devices are sold on the market as “maintenance-free”. While they may be marketed as such, typically, somewhere in the literature for a “maintenance-free” product is a recommended calibration interval for the device. This is because no company can guarantee that a sensor will not stop working suddenly at any point in time. This is why, if a sensor is to be used in safety-critical applications on a regular basis where the target gas is a known risk, it is absolutely necessary to “bump test” and calibrate the device regularly to ensure that the sensor is in top working condition.

The average consumer using a portable CO detector for non-work purposes likely does not have the resources to dedicate to purchasing a calibration kit to test and calibrate their sensors. For those users, a basic check can be done on the sensor every time it is used by placing it near a known source of CO, like an open flame or car exhaust, just to determine if the readings spike or not (obviously making sure to follow best practices and keep the sensor away from direct heat or gas streams). When it comes to low-level readings like the alarm points for CO (35 PPM and 200 PPM standard), the accuracy of the sensor is far less important than the sensitivity. Just knowing that the sensor can and does respond to the target gas is usually enough to guarantee functionality. However, the only tried and true method to make sure your device is performing in top condition is to regularly test and calibrate it with certified test gas from a trusted seller.

Technology is filled with nuance. When it comes to safety, it is important to know and understand the dangers of the environments we interact with, and equally as important to know and understand the tools we use that inform us about that environment. Stay safe, stay informed, and know your environment