Next up from last week’s article, ‘Why do I need to bump my device?’, I think I will give you a little more detailed information about what bump test is and how to do it.
Bump testing is the only way to check that the entire gas detector is working properly. It checks that the sensors respond to the specified gas, it also veeres that the screen displays the reactions and it confirms that all alarms are activated and the alarm detector is correct.
While it is strongly recommended from the manufacturer, from day 1. 11. 2010, EN60079-29 part 1 was adjusted in accordance with ATEX directive 94/9/EC. Therefore, in order to comply with the ATEX directive, handheld devices that detect flammable gases must check the function daily before use.
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Quick guide to bump test for gas detector |
How to bump test
While, for any gas detection device, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, the principle is the same. The purpose of the Bump test is to test the device with a specific gas concentration inserted into the device enough for the device to enter an alarm state, as well as to display the appropriate gas parameters.
To test the detector, you must attach a traffic adjuster with indicators to the device. It is mandatory to have a gas caner with a standard gas concentration (or toxic gas, if it is a multi-gas detector). Attach one dedicated pipe end to the air conditioner flow adjuster and attach the other end to the device flow adjuster as well as the exhaust on the flower output. This gas is discharged at a specific speed of about 0.5 L / min, the contact of the detector gas sensors will show the gas measurement signals and the alarm needs to react accordingly. You are looking for values to achieve a certain value within a certain period of time, usually within 10% of the applicable gas level and within 30-40 seconds.
It must be known that in all possibilities you are using a toxic / dangerous gas, and it is necessary to take reasonable precautions, including adequate ventilation.
It should also be noted that Bump testing should be carried out in accordance with the instructions of the equipment manufacturer.
Depending on the device you use, there may be a semi-automatic or automatic system available to perform bump tests for you. The best type can get the configuration that you only have to put the machine in, and it will do the rest for you, from applying gas to recording the results for compliance purposes. These automated systems can provide the Bump Speed feature (where you just need to find the first alarm point to activate) or, more commonly, the Smart bump test (where you see the machine’s readers located in a parameters that show that the machine is reading the gas concentration correctly).
Completing the stages will take about 20-30 seconds, so this is an effective, fast and simple solution, and capable of saving people.
How often should I Bump test my device?
You should refer to the manufacturer’s recommendation to determine the frequency of testing, although the frequency with which you use the machine may also be relevant. Users should carry out risk assessmentes related to frequent bump tests to ensure they keep users safe there and keep ATEX recommendations in mind.
Although you regularly Bump tests, remember this cannot exclude the need for gas detectors to be periodically inspected, adjusted and maintained by a competent individual; I will talk more about this in the next week.
Trans by TESIN VIETNAM