Gas detector tubes are an easy way to monitor levels of gases and vapors. Each tube comes calibrated to measure a particular gas, with a scale printed directly on the tube. This scale measures parts-per-million-hours, or PPMH. To read gas detector tubes, pinpoint the marker at which the colored substance inside the tube ends and divide the reading by the length of sample time. This makes the tubes quick and simple to use.

Gas detector tubes are used in many fields, such as mining, construction, hazardous materials handling and other industries. They can detect toxic gases in mines and other dangerous enclosed areas and are economical to use. Gas detector tubes can even be chemically reset, ensuring multiple uses. But before you purchase gas detector tubes, consider:

1. Because each gas detector tube comes pre-calibrated, there's no need to adjust or set up detector tubes.

2. Gas detector tubes can only detect one gas or vapor at a time, as each one is filled with a chemical sensitive to one particular gas.

3. Reading gas detector tube information requires an air sample every measurement to be injected into the tube to be effective. Gas tube detectors do not detect the air around you.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy from a gas detector tubes provider

Gas detector tubes are available from most workplace-safety equipment and gas monitor providers. Most companies sell them singly, although some are available in bulk. Depending on the company, each gas detector may come with a pump, or the pump may have to be purchased separately.

I recommend: Purchase from RAE Systems' gas detector tubes list, or check out Sensidyne's huge selection of gas detector tubes.

Find gas detector tubes for sale in bulk

Discounts are often available if you purchase your gas detector tubes in bulk. If your project will need enough detectors to provide safety for a long period of time and you plan to work with the same hazards, then buying in bulk can save you time and money. Occasionally, companies also offer variety packs of specifically chosen detectors for certain industries, such as mining.

I recommend: Buy gas detector tubes in bulk from the Science Applications International Corporation, or contact the Instrument Depot for information on their bulk discounts.

Purchase gas detector tubes pumps

Each time a reading is taken using a gas detector tube, air must be pumped from the test area and injected into the detector tube. There are a wide variety of pumps available for this, including mechanical and hand-pump models. Many gas detector pumps are proprietary, and not all will work with all gas detector models. To ensure proper function, it's best to order your detector tubes and pump from the same manufacturer, if possible.

I recommend: Buy a pump from BuyDraegerTubes.com, or check out PK Safety Supply pumps.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Always check the expiration dates on your gas detector tubes at the time of purchase, and before each use. Expired gas detector tubes may not work properly, as the chemicals that detect gas can degenerate with age.