How often should methane monitors on electrical face equipment be calibrated?

Methane monitors on electrical face equipment are crucial for ensuring the safety of mining operations by detecting potentially hazardous levels of methane gas. The correct calibration frequency ensures that the monitors provide accurate readings, which is essential for the timely management of ventilation and for taking necessary precautions to prevent methane accumulation.

Calibrating the monitors weekly strikes a balance between maintaining accuracy and ensuring that the equipment is operational without overburdening maintenance schedules. Frequent calibration is necessary since conditions in mining environments can rapidly change, affecting the reliability of the readings. Weekly checks help to ensure that any drift in readings is promptly detected and corrected, thus maintaining a high safety standard.

Longer intervals, such as monthly or yearly, could result in periods where the monitors are not providing accurate information, posing a risk to personnel. A daily requirement could be impractical and lead to resource strain, making weekly calibration the most practical and effective choice for ongoing safety in operations.