Top Four Things to Consider When Renting Gas Detectors

By: Jason Wright, Contributor

Every day, workers across numerous industries use gas detectors for a variety of applications. From the largest refineries, mines and mills to construction companies and emergency responders, gas detectors are a central part of worker safety.

While many companies purchase their gas detectors outright or use a long-term leasing program, sometimes renting gas detectors on a short-term basis is the best fit for the company and the situation. Renting gas detectors is an ideal solution, no matter the length of the rental period or the quantity of instruments needed.

Renting Equipment

Based on the project, there are certain factors that can impact your decision to rent gas detectors. Be sure to scope out the project and ask the right questions, taking the following into consideration:

What gas hazards will be present where you are working? This will directly affect which sensor or sensors you will need in your gas detector, which will determine which monitor will best suit your needs. For example, you may just need a single-gas monitor with a carbon monoxide sensor, or you might need a multi-gas monitor to detect several toxic and combustible gases at the same time. Gas hazards differ between industries, so there may not be a “one-size-fits-all” solution. It is important to understand the gases that are present and understand the nature of these gases. If you are unsure which gases will be present, contact your
safety manager.

How will you maintain your gas detectors during the rental period? Gas detectors require routine maintenance to ensure proper functionality. It is crucial that gas detectors are calibrated monthly and bump tested before each day’s use. During a short-term rental, these processes can become a challenge. While rented gas detectors are calibrated before they leave the factory, certain situations (like a sensor overage) can dictate the need for a calibration, before the gas detector reaches its recommended 30-day window. Fortunately, docking stations are also available to rent. Docking stations automatically run calibrations and bump tests on instruments that are docked to ensure functionality, and simplify the maintenance process for the worker. With docking station software, users can also view the results of these tests, along with instrument data that is collected, while the worker is using it. This eliminates the need for safety managers to play a guessing game, when it comes to viewing a worker’s gas exposure or ensuring that gas detectors are being calibrated and bump tested appropriately.

How long will the rental period last? Predictability can be a struggle during an emergency situation or unexpected project. Sometimes, you won’t know how long the project will last or how long you’ll need the gas detectors. Luckily, rental companies can be flexible. Some rental companies offer weekly and monthly rental rates, with the monthly pricing usually at a discounted rate. Through package tracking, some rental companies can start the clock on the rental agreement the day the equipment is received at the facility, and can end the agreement on the day it is shipped back. If an influx of workers or contactors drives the need for additional gas detectors on the rental agreement, rental companies are happy to provide as many gas detectors as needed to keep workers safe.

How can I ensure that I know how to use the gas detector? With new (and sometimes unfamiliar) workers on site, it is important to ensure that they are properly trained on using their gas detectors. Many rental companies offer a variety of training resources to ensure that workers are comfortable with these life-saving devices. Trainers also provide insight on the nature of toxic and combustible gases that may be present in your workspace. Training is available in person, online or through webinars. In-person training gives workers the chance to get a complete, hands-on course by a qualified trainer. Online resources include videos, articles and instructional documents to help users learn how to use their gas detectors. Webinars allow users the chance to interact with a live instructor and get their questions answered immediately.

While there are many available options for keeping a workforce safe from gas hazards, renting gas detectors can be the most efficient and cost-effective. Whether you need 50 monitors for a large project or one gas detector for personal protection, renting can be an efficient, effective way to stay safe in a hazardous worksite. WMHS

For more information about gas detector rental at Industrial Scientific, contact Rental Manager, Jason Wright at jwright@indsci.com or 412-490-1912.