Deadly Sin No. 2 – Lack of Bump Test
Missing bump test is the second sin in the series about the 7 deadly sins in gas detection. A bump test is the only reliable way to test the function of a gas detector to ensure it works correctly. There are many reasons why a portable gas detector may not necessarily respond to gas. Reasons you don’t always notice. When an instrument is turned on, you can see that the battery and display are working correctly, but that’s all you can see.
What you need to know about bump tests
Why perform a bump test?
From day to day, a detector can develop a range of faults, including:
- Dirt and debris blocking the sensors
- Physical impact damaging alarms or other electrical components
- Contamination from cleaning agents hindering the sensors
- Catalyst poisoning from, for example, hydrogen sulfide
- High temperatures drying out electrochemical sensors
So how can you be sure your detector is working? The answer is through frequent and regular bump tests.
A simple test that makes you safe
A basic bump test can verify that a gas detector is working by exposing the device to a test gas. If the detector does not respond as it should, there is a problem. It’s that simple. So why do people still not perform regular bump tests? The list of reasons looks something like this:
- It takes too long
- It’s too difficult and requires training
- The gas costs money
- There is no law that says you must
So why not perform bump tests?
A comprehensive bump test is a bit more complicated. Still, the average time to perform a bump test is 20-30 seconds – less time than it takes to put on the rest of your equipment! Normally, little or no training is required, and depending on the detector, there are partially automated or fully automated systems that can perform the bump test for you. This makes it even easier, so there is no excuse not to perform a bump test.
When should you perform bump tests?
The test frequency depends on the manufacturer’s recommendation and how often you use the device. Since November 2010, EN60079-29 part 1 has been harmonized according to the ATEX directive 94/9 / EC (2014/34 / EU). Therefore, portable devices measuring combustible gases must have a function check with gas before each day of use.
However, remember that regular bump tests do not eliminate the need to inspect, calibrate, and service gas detectors regularly by a trained technician. Calibration and service do not eliminate the need for bump tests either.
