New! Hand-held PID-based GC

Our new Model PID GC 121 was introduced this month at the New England local section American Industrial Hygiene Association (NEAIHA) all-day conference and at the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) Fall Conference. 


This photoionization detector (PID) based hand-held analyzer uses a gas chromatograph (GC) to separate a variety of toxic chemicals present in the workplace at chemical manufacturing facilities, refineries, plants, emergency response situations, laboratories and all other operations that require monitoring of processes for industrial hygiene worker health and environmental safety applications.

The PID GC 121 is a highly customized analyzer. There are over 250 chemical compounds that can be detected using a PID. When coupled with a GC, this PID can deliver specific direct reading results for similar chemical compounds within the same detection range. This would eliminate the need for the common costly gas detection consumable items like detector tubes. Instead of scrubbing out other chemical compounds present in the sample, the Model 121 actually measures all of the media present and provides specific detection and identification of each chemical present in the sample. 

The Model 121 is designed for rugged field use and is simple to use and maintain with minimal training required. Real-time data is stored and collected on the unit and can be sent to an external monitoring system/PC/tablet via Bluetooth. 

Discussion about particular applications and desired species to be monitored needs to occur with one of our specialists to determine the lamp and GC capillary/packed column match. For example: the unit can be optimized for a ppb Benzene specific analysis or modified for BTEX measurements. Other typical applications include: vinyl chloride, ethylene dichloride, ethylene oxide, hydrazine, acrylonitrile, arsine, phosphine, hydrogen sulfide and so many more! 

Inquire today about how you can add the Model 121 to your gas detection tool-kit. Contact Jack Driscoll or Jennifer Maclachlan for more information at sales@hnu.comsales@hnu.com or via phone at 774-413-5281 X0. 

A Modified Analytical Method for the Determination of Arsine at Low ppb Levels by HG/GC/PID

The session "Innovations In IH Sampling and Analysis",   PO131  took take place on Wednesday June 4, 2014  from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM Convention Center 214C

Jennifer Maclachlan presenting at Innovations in IH Sampling and Analysis San Antonio, TX June 4, 2014 PRESENTATION TYPE: Podium

CURRENT TOPICS: Sampling and Laboratory Analysis TITLE: A Modified Analytical Method for the Determination of Arsine at Low ppb Levels by HG/GC/PID 3pm

ABSTRACT BODY Objective: The OSHA method for arsine involves the collection of arsine (PEL = 50 ppb) on a charcoal tube, desorption with nitric acid and analysis by graphite furnace/atomic absorption (GF/AA). The GF/AA is a complex and difficult technique that is often used for ppb analyses to obtain better sensitivity. We propose to replace the GF/AA method with a more sensitive method that replaces the readout method with an easier and more sensitive technique. Methods: Since nitric acid (HNO3) is used to desorb the arsine, it is present in solution as arsenous acid (H3AsO3). The arsenous acid can be easily reduced to arsine (AsH3) using a reducing agent such as sodium borahydride. The AsH3 is collected on a solid sorbent and thermally desorbed into a GC where it is separated from other components and detected with a photoionization detector (PID). We have used this hydride generation GC/PID (HG/GC/PID) technique for the analysis of sub ppb levels of arsenic in water, seawater, soils, food and juices. Results : A linear calibration curve for arsenic was obtained for 5-500 ppb. The reproducibility for a set of five results provided the following data: the average value was 5.28 ppb, the standard deviation was 0.142 ppm and the coefficient of variation was excellent at 2.7%. Conclusions: The HG/GC/PID method provides a very rapid and sensitive technique for the analysis of arsenic compounds at ppb levels. The precision of AsH3 for five samples at about 1/10th of the PEL. The same OSHA sampling and desorption method can be used for AsH3 and the GF/AA can be replaced with an easier to use and less costly method: HG/GC/PID.

AUTHORS (FIRST NAME INITIAL LAST NAME): J. N. Driscoll1, J. L. Maclachlan1

AUTHORS/INSTITUTIONS: J.N. Driscoll, J.L. Maclachlan, PID Analyzers, LLC, Sandwich, Massachusetts, Massachusetts, UNITED STATES;

PID and Process GC Instrumentation

PID and Process GC Instrumentation JackDriscoll

Scenario 3: Remediation at an *old* refinery

Standardized training for the operation and interpretation of direct-reading meters is severely lacking. While most users are able to calibrate and operate the meter within the range of alarms, readings are often misinterpreted creating a potential Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) situation.

Scenario 3 

It is remediation work at an old refinery. The PID data log shows constant readings at 199 ppm, for the last hour. Your combustible gas meter shows 0% LEL. 

Which direct-reading instrument would you have the workers use in order to have them safely investigate the situation? Electrochemical sensor? Thermal conductivity sensor? NDIR? Colorimetric tubes?

Do your first responders have the knowledge and skills needed to make decisions in situations like this?

Through case studies and real-life scenarios, AIHA’s Train-the-Trainer 4-Gas Monitor/PID Field Use course enables first responders, fire fighters, environmental field technicians and persons doing confined space entries to improve their interpretation of direct-reading instrument output — giving them the knowledge and skills needed to keep you and your coworkers out of harm’s way.

Train-the-Trainer 4-Gas Monitor/PID Field Use is being held on Saturday AND Sunday at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Register today.

…………………………………

Craig Sorrell
Coordinator Collaborative Projects, STI

AIHA^(R)
Protecting Worker Health^(R)

PDC 010Train-the-Trainer: 4-Gas Monitor/PID Field Use

Intermediate | 2.67 CM Points/16 Contact Hours/2.0 CEU/COC Points | Saturday and Sunday | 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. | Limit: 45
Real-Time Detection Systems
Two Day Course
Cost $750.00


This PDC provides the knowledge and helps develop the skills needed to train field persons in the operation of Portable Gas Detection Instrumentation, focusing on delivering training to meet the body of knowledge requirements of the AIHA Registered Operator credential. At the end of this PDC, participants will be prepared to train users of the portable 4-Gas Meter and/or the combo 4-Gas Meter/Photoionization Detector (PID).
By your participation in this PDC, you will have completed the first stage towards becoming authorized trainers for the 4-Gas Detection Registry Preparation course.
Participants must bring 4-Gas or 4-Gas/PID detection equipment.
Upon completion, the participant will be able to:

• Discuss the difference between calibrating to methane vs. pentane

• Identify sensor poisons

• Recognize cross sensitivities to sensors

• Demonstrate the application of this instrument in measuring toxic contaminants

• List instrument limitations

• Cite basic sensor theory and how they work

• Lead discussions in this area with field personnel

• Demonstrate proper calibration and use of a variety of portable gas detection equipment

• Module 1 – Instrument overview

• Module 2 – Review of basic chemical principles

• Module 3 – Common terminology

• Module 4 – Oxygen sensor technology

• Module 5 – Combustible gas sensors

• Module 6 – Electrochemical sensors

• Module 7 – Photoionization detector

• Module 8 – Calibration of the instrumentation

• Module 9 – Datalogging

• Module 10 – Guidelines for selection

Instructors will evaluate participants understanding of the materials presented based on:

• Post course test

• Hands-on demonstrations and practicum

• Practice exercises

• Workshops

• Group activities

• Interactive games

Real-Time Detection Systems

• May 18
 — E-handout download instructions are e-mailed.

• June 1 
 — Contact the AIHA if you have not received your e-handout e-mail.

• June 1 
 — AIHce 2012 online communities for collaborative learning open.

• June 15-17
 — AIHce 2012 PDCs are presented. Participants must bring a printed or electronic copy of their PDC handout.

• August 31
 — AIHce 2012 online communities for collaborative learning close.

• August 27 
– Educational transcripts updated and available for download

• Dawn Bolstad-Johnson, MPH, CIH, CSP
Phoenix Fire Department

• REGISTER TODAY

Scenario 2: Another routine rescue?

"Standardized training for the operation and interpretation of direct-reading meters is severely lacking. While most users are able to calibrate and operate the meter within the range of alarms, readings are often misinterpreted creating a potential Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) situation. 

Scenario 2

For years, workers at a dry ice company have been disposing of dry ice chips in a dumpster. On one occasion, a worker notices a bike near the dumpster, but doesn’t know whose bike it is. The worker looks inside the dumpster and sees a young man lying at the bottom. 911 was called and the fire department was dispatched. This was just a routine rescue, wasn’t it? 

What direct-reading instruments should the firefighters use in order to have them safely investigate the situation? PID? Combustible gas meter? Electrochemical sensor? Thermal conductivity sensor? NDIR? Colorimetric tubes?

Do your first responders have the knowledge and skills needed to make decisions in situations like this?

Through case studies and real-life scenarios, AIHA’s Train-the-Trainer 4-Gas Monitor/PID Field Use course enables first responders, fire fighters, environmental field technicians and persons doing confined space entries to improve their interpretation of direct-reading instrument output — giving them the knowledge and skills needed to keep you and your coworkers out of harm’s way.

Train-the-Trainer 4-Gas Monitor/PID Field Use is being held on Saturday AND Sunday at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Register today.

…………………………………

Craig Sorrell
Coordinator Collaborative Projects, STI

AIHA^(R)
Protecting Worker Health^(R)

PDC 010Train-the-Trainer: 4-Gas Monitor/PID Field Use

Intermediate | 2.67 CM Points/16 Contact Hours/2.0 CEU/COC Points | Saturday and Sunday | 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. | Limit: 45
Real-Time Detection Systems
Two Day Course
Cost $750.00


This PDC provides the knowledge and helps develop the skills needed to train field persons in the operation of Portable Gas Detection Instrumentation, focusing on delivering training to meet the body of knowledge requirements of the AIHA Registered Operator credential. At the end of this PDC, participants will be prepared to train users of the portable 4-Gas Meter and/or the combo 4-Gas Meter/Photoionization Detector (PID).
By your participation in this PDC, you will have completed the first stage towards becoming authorized trainers for the 4-Gas Detection Registry Preparation course.
Participants must bring 4-Gas or 4-Gas/PID detection equipment.
Upon completion, the participant will be able to:

• Discuss the difference between calibrating to methane vs. pentane

• Identify sensor poisons

• Recognize cross sensitivities to sensors

• Demonstrate the application of this instrument in measuring toxic contaminants

• List instrument limitations

• Cite basic sensor theory and how they work

• Lead discussions in this area with field personnel

• Demonstrate proper calibration and use of a variety of portable gas detection equipment

• Module 1 – Instrument overview

• Module 2 – Review of basic chemical principles

• Module 3 – Common terminology

• Module 4 – Oxygen sensor technology

• Module 5 – Combustible gas sensors

• Module 6 – Electrochemical sensors

• Module 7 – Photoionization detector

• Module 8 – Calibration of the instrumentation

• Module 9 – Datalogging

• Module 10 – Guidelines for selection

Instructors will evaluate participants understanding of the materials presented based on:

• Post course test

• Hands-on demonstrations and practicum

• Practice exercises

• Workshops

• Group activities

• Interactive games

Real-Time Detection Systems

• May 18
 — E-handout download instructions are e-mailed.

• June 1 
 — Contact the AIHA if you have not received your e-handout e-mail.

• June 1 
 — AIHce 2012 online communities for collaborative learning open.

• June 15-17
 — AIHce 2012 PDCs are presented. Participants must bring a printed or electronic copy of their PDC handout.

• August 31
 — AIHce 2012 online communities for collaborative learning close.

• August 27 
– Educational transcripts updated and available for download

• Dawn Bolstad-Johnson, MPH, CIH, CSP
Phoenix Fire Department

• REGISTER TODAY