Why Skipping Gas Detector Calibrations Is a Serious Safety Risk

Gas detection equipment is one of the most important safety tools in any facility that handles hazardous gases. Whether you’re working in confined spaces, chemical processing, water treatment, or energy production, these monitors are often the only warning before a life-threatening event.

But here’s the catch: gas detectors don’t stay accurate on their own. Over time, even the best equipment can drift out of calibration.

A detector that looks and sounds like it’s working might actually be giving false readings. That means the people relying on it may be walking into dangerous conditions with no idea they’re at risk.

Why Calibration Matters

Calibration ensures that your gas detector is measuring gas concentrations accurately. Without it, sensors may under-report or completely miss the presence of dangerous gases.

There are several factors that contribute to calibration drift:

• Sensor degradation over time
• Exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity
• Contact with interfering chemicals
• General wear and tear from daily use

Even if a monitor passes a bump test or powers on normally, that doesn’t guarantee accuracy. Regular calibration is the only way to know with confidence that your equipment will respond when it’s needed most.

What the Experts Say

Safety organizations have long warned about the dangers of neglecting calibration:

• OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) advises calibration before each day’s use or according to manufacturer guidelines (OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146 Appendix B).
• The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) recommends monthly calibration at a minimum, and more often in tough conditions.
• Gas detector manufacturers typically recommend daily bump testing and full calibration every 30 days.

These aren’t just suggestions. They’re based on incidents where improperly calibrated detectors failed to warn workers about deadly hazards.

Real-World Consequences

There have been numerous cases where uncalibrated or poorly maintained gas detectors contributed to injuries and even fatalities. In some situations, alarms never sounded. In others, faulty readings led teams to believe an area was safe when it wasn’t.

These are preventable tragedies.

How Apollo Safety Can Help

At Apollo Safety, we provide full calibration services for both portable and fixed gas detectors. Whether you need onsite servicing, routine monthly maintenance, or equipment rentals that arrive fully calibrated and ready to use, we can help.

We also offer calibration reminder programs and employee training so your team understands how to maintain gas detection systems correctly and consistently.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

If it’s been over a month since your last calibration, now is the time to act. Protecting your workers starts with making sure the tools you rely on are doing their job.

To schedule a calibration or speak with a gas detection specialist, visit www.apollosafety.com or call us at (800) 813-5408.