Formaldehyde Gas Detector
A formaldehyde gas detector, also known as a HCHO gas meter, detects or monitors formaldehyde concentrations in the air. These gas detectors are mainly used for personal protection in the case of toxic gases. Formaldehyde is used to make chemicals, particleboard, fabrics, paper coatings, fibreboard, plywood, and many other household products.
Pros
Small and low cost HCHO gas detectors helps with worker safety.
HCHO gas detectors are inexpensive.
What Is a Formaldehyde Gas Detector?
A formaldehyde (HCHO) gas detector is an instrument used to detect the concentration of HCHO in the air or in a toxic environment. These devices (specifically the Forensics Detectors FD-90A-HCHO) have a long-life battery, clear screen that displays the HCHO concentration in ppm, and a belt clip to connect to clothing or a bag. In order to protect users, these gas detectors also have LED, vibration, and buzzer alarms to warn in dangerous situations.
Formaldehyde gas detector is also known as HCHO monitor, formaldehyde meters, formaldehyde analyzer, and HCHO gas detector. These names all refer to the same device, an HCHO gas meter.
What Does a Formaldehyde Meter Detect?
A formaldehyde gas detector senses HCHO gas and displays the levels in parts per million (ppm). The harmful effects of HCHO on human health warrant the use of formaldehyde detectors to prevent high levels of exposure.
How Are People Exposed to Formaldehyde?
Small amounts of formaldehyde are present both indoors and outdoors due to release from HCHO-containing materials. Vehicle exhaust is a main source of formaldehyde outdoors. The most common cause of HCHO exposure is inhaling these vapors.
Besides inhalation, the liquid form of formaldehyde can be absorbed through the skin. Eating and drinking products with trace amounts of HCHO can also cause exposure.
What Should I Do If I’ve Been Exposed to Formaldehyde Gas?
If you suspect that you have been exposed to formaldehyde gas, it is important to evacuate to an outdoor environment with no traces of HCHO exposure. Wash the affected areas to stop eyes and skin from burning. Medical professionals can help manage symptoms such as wheezing.
Preventing exposure is important for safety and can be achieved with an HCHO gas detector.
Can I Smell Formaldehyde Gas?
Yes, humans can smell formaldehyde gas. It is described to have a strong odor similar to pickles.
The formaldehyde odor threshold is estimated to be less than 0.5 ppm. See here.
However, it is a bad idea to rely on your sense of smell to determine the “concentration” of an aromatic gas like HCHO. Over time, the nose becomes desensitized to the odor – this phenomena is called olfactory fatigue.