When it comes to choosing gas detection equipment for oil and gas applications, getting the most “bang for your buck” without sacrificing or compromising worker safety is a key factor in the decision making process. There are many choices in the market today including equipment rental, CPO (Certified Pre-Owned), and disposable equipment, but how do you decide what’s best for you? This article will explore portable gas detection equipment solutions that meet the needs of your application and situation, while keeping cost considerations in mind.

1. Short-Term Needs – Rentals

Renting gas detection equipment to cover short-term needs is a great choice. Why pay a large capital expense up front and then also pay to maintain those assets all year long when that particular group of equipment is only needed once or twice per year for a short time? Here are a few situations when renting makes good sense.

• Project/Contract Work: A short-term project, such as a turnaround/outage, can typically last anywhere from a few days to a few months. These projects normally require an influx of gas detection equipment to keep the workforce safe during that time frame. Maybe you have a project that requires monitoring for a specific gas and you do not currently have a corresponding sensor installed in your fleet of gas detectors. Some “exotic” sensors are expensive to purchase and maintain. Consider renting if the need is short term.

• Trial: If you are in the market to purchase gas detectors, it may be a good idea to rent that unit first to see if it is something you will want for your long-term needs.

• Repair Rental: Have you ever taken your car to the shop and found that they were going to need to keep it for a week or more to complete the repairs? Being without your car for a week, in most cases, is impossible. Many service centers will offer a rental option to cover you while yours is in for repair. Check with your gas detector service center for a repair rental while yours is being serviced.

Source a rental company that has a good track record. Ask them how they bill for their services: What does it include? What is the minimum rental period? Is there a break in price for longer term applications? When does the rental start/end? Is the equipment prepared by factory-trained technicians? How will freight charges be handled?

2. Long Term Projects – Certified Pre-Owned

Consider buying “CPO” or Certified Pre-Owned gas detection equipment for longer-term projects that are set to last six months or longer. Check with the manufacturer as some will offer warranties that may cover the entire term of the project. Purchasing a CPO gas detector is a low cost, low commitment option that carries the same level of safety as its new counterparts.

3. Everyday Operations

For everyday operations, consider purchasing new gas detection equipment or look at the latest in gas detector subscription programs. If you have the personnel and technical expertise to maintain your own fleet of gas detectors, purchasing new equipment can be a solution that best fits your situation. Weigh your options, but don’t forget about all of the hidden costs that come with owning gas detection equipment. There are lease/subscription based programs available that include a service-based exchange program, which takes care of the maintenance aspect of owning gas detectors.

These are just a few options available for gas detection coverage in the oil and gas industry. No matter your situation, there are options available to ensure your workers and property stay safe, even on a tight budget.