What Is Gas Analyser Calibration & Are You Compliant?

Combustion based appliances like stoves, boilers, generators and furnaces are all tricky things to install or repair due to the gas that they use, and they therefore need to be handled in the right way. That is why engineers make use of a gas analyser to ensure that the appliances that they are working with are safe and efficient at all times. So, what is gas analyser calibration, and is your business compliant?

What is a gas analyser?

A gas analyser measures the emissions that are generated by these combustion based appliances, and are used in both commercial and domestic settings.

They measure the critical gases such as carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide that are produced when the appliance is in operation to check for any issues that it may have, and it can then alert the operator straight away so that appropriate action can be taken.

They can also measure the air temperature and the oxygen levels to ensure that any appliance has the correct levels of ventilation and that the conditions in the room are safe for use.

Calibrating a gas analyser

As these important tools are being continually exposed to gas, their sensors and components can deteriorate over time, and this can mean that there is a risk of them producing false or inaccurate readings. If this happens, then appliances which are unsafe may go undetected, which can be extremely dangerous, as it could be emitting high levels of carbon monoxide.

In addition to safety concerns, it can also lead to breakdowns or complications that can mean a piece of equipment is not working as efficiently as it should or may be out of service entirely. This can be very costly and can cause a huge number of problems.

It is therefore important to calibrate a gas analyser and check that it is working correctly. Most gas analysers will warn you that a calibration is due, but you should be looking to do this at least once a year. If your gas analyser is used heavily, then it should be even more regular than this, and you should get your device checked immediately if you believe that it may be faulty.

The calibration process itself involves exposing the analyser to different gas mixtures in order to test its parts. Each component is then individually assessed to determine whether it is fit for purpose. The whole process can take a few days and so it is important to take this into account when planning your calibration schedule.

It is essential that gas analysers are professionally tested to ensure that the process is done correctly. A valid certificate is required from a recognised laboratory or manufacturer to show this has been completed to the required safety standards.

Gas analyser compliance

All businesses are governed by strict safety standards, and by not calibrating your gas analyser, you may not be compliant with these laws. This can be extremely costly as you can face losing your licence to operate. It is a criminal offence to use a gas analyser which does not have a valid calibration certificate, and so if you are found to be in breach of this, you may be facing a hefty fine or even criminal charges.

Calibrating a gas analyser is vital both for safety reasons and for the compliance and legal standing of your business. It is therefore something that you need to manage on a regular basis to make sure that you do not fall foul of the law and to be confident that the equipment that you handle is always performing safely and correctly.