Content:: Saudi Arabian Oil Company (Saudi Aramco) General Instruction Manual

Saudi Aramco 7180 (5/89)
G.I. NUMBER Approved

SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY (Saudi Aramco) 2.708
GENERAL INSTRUCTION MANUAL ISSUE DATE REPLACES
ISSUING ORG. LOSS PREVENTION DEPARTMENT 12/19/1984 5/1980
SUBJECT: GAS TESTING PROCEDURES APPROVAL PAGE NUMBER
YAS 1 OF 17
CONTENT:
This instruction outlines the method for using specific gas detecting equipment. The main body of the G.I.
covers responsibilities of various organizations. Supplements attached include:
Supplement 1.Use of MSA and Drager Multi-Gas Detector - H2S Testing Procedures.
Supplement 2.Use of Bacharach Model K-25 Oxygen Indicator.
Supplement 3.Use of J-W Sniffer Model G Combustible Gas Indicator.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
1.0 DIVISION/UNIT HEAD SHALL ENSURE:

1.1 that the procedures outlined in this instruction are strictly followed by personnel under his
supervision.
1.2 that the Division/Unit instructors are trained, tested and certified to train, test and certify
personnel on the correct use of gas testing instruments.
1.3 that once every two years users are trained, tested and certified in the correct use of gas testing
instruments, and that they carry a valid certificate which is signed by the Division Head and
shows the expiry date.
1.4 that once every two years Division/Unit Head and/or instructors are trained, tested and certified
as qualified instructors.
1.5 that only the trained, tested and certified persons perform the gas tests as part of Work Permit
Procedures (GI. 2.100).
1.6 that each gas testing instrument is sent to an instrument shop for overhaul and maintenance at
least once every 3 months or earlier if required.
1.7 that a person conducting a test in an atmosphere known or suspected to be hazardous, enters
only after wearing respiratory protection e.g. Scott Air Pak or airline hose mask.
1.8 that an appropriate test be conducted prior to entry into any vessel, tank, pit or trench suspected
to contain toxic gases or vapors, e.g. H2S or combustible gas or oxygen deficient atmosphere in
accordance with GI 2.100.
* CHANGE ** ADDITION NEW INSTRUCTION COMPLETE REVISION X 17

YAS 2 OF 17
2.0 LOSS PREVENTION DEPARTMENT IS RESPONSIBLE:

2.1 for conducting the training of Division/Unit Heads and/or designated instructors for qualifying
them as certified gas testing instructors who will in turn train their personnel in the correct use
of gas testing instruments.
2.1.1 Certified instructors are personnel who have successfully passed an instructor's exam
and have received an instructor's card.
2.1.2 Certified gas testing personnel are those who have successfully completed and passed the
gas testing personnel course and have received a user's card.
2.2 for conducting refresher training classes as necessary and also assist in re-certification of
Division/Unit Heads and/or designated instructors once every two years as qualified instructors
on the correct use of gas testing instruments.
3.0 CERTIFIED GAS TESTING PERSONNEL SHALL ENSURE:

3.1 that they only use instruments which have been checked and inspected by an instrument shop
within 3 months.
3.2 that they do not use detection tubes after the tubes' expiration date and that they also discard all
used tubes.
3.3 that they return the instrument to the instrument shop at least once every 3 months for routine
maintenance checks.
3.4 that prior to use of J-W Sniffer Model G, it is field tested for tightness, voltage, zero adjustment
and it is tested using the test kit each day and after a series of tests to assure its continued
reliability.
3.5 that prior to the use of Bacharach Model K-25 Oxygen Indicator, it is field tested for tightness,
voltage, and it is calibrated in atmospheric air to give a reading of approximately 21%.
4.0 INSTRUMENT SHOP SUPERVISOR SHALL ENSURE:

4.1 that required equipment e.g., test kit AMS #21-374-211 for calibration of J-W Sniffer Model G,
re-activation kit AMS # 21-342-610 for Oxygen Indicator etc., and spare parts for repairing gas
testing instruments are available in their instrument shop and that a written procedure is
followed.
4.2 that a sticker is affixed on each instrument showing the date of its inspection and the due date
for its return to the instrument shop for routine maintenance.

YAS 3 OF 17
4.3 that a record be maintained of each instrument brought in for servicing, including its serial
number, location origin, parts replaced, and any other relevant remarks.
4.4 that all the mechanical and electrical connections of the instrument are checked, maintained and
repaired properly and that the instrument is cleaned.
Approved By:
Manager
Loss prevention department

YAS 4 OF 17
SUPPLEMENT 2.708- 1
SUPPLEMENT 2.708- 1
1.0 INTRODUCTION
MSA - H2S Detector (AMS #21-322-422) is used with the detector tube (AMS #21-322-486). The
instrument consists of an aspirator bulb, a detector tube holder, a movable scale and a detector tube to
detect H2S in the range between 0 to 50 ppm only.
Drager - Multi Gas Detector (AMS #21-323-000) can be used to detect different substances by using
tubes designed for a particular gas or vapor. Detector tubes are available with various concentration
ranges (PPM scales) for quantitative measurement.
2.0 PURPOSE
Either the MSA or Drager H2S detector can be used to identify the presence of H2S in the air which is
a valuable tool in preventing personnel from entering into a toxic atmosphere.
3.0 PREPARATION FOR USING MSA H2S DETECTOR (AMS #21-322-

422)
3.1 Test inlet flow control valve for leakage.
3.2 Select an unbroken red-tipped detector tube (AMS #21-322-486). Check and ensure that the
detector tube validity date has not expired.
3.2.1 Break both tips of the tube using the hole provided in the detector frame.
3.3 Insert the red end of tube through the frame guide at the top, and seat the tube in the rubber
bushing at the bulb end of the frame.
3.4 Pull out the spring-loaded retaining head and place the rubber bushing over the free end of the
tube, and press it in lightly to make sure the bushings fit the tube snugly.
3.4.1 To perform gas tests without entering tanks, vessels, excavations or any other confined
spaces, it is necessary to use a flexible hose (AMS #25-538-500). To do this,
i. insert the extension provided in the position normally occupied by the glass
detector tube.
ii. then, attach the flexible sampling hose.
iii. then, perform a leak test.

YAS 5 OF 17
SUPPLEMENT 2.708- 1
iv. then, insert the chemical tube into the sampling line.
v. then, place a small piece of flexible hose over the exposed end of the chemical
tube to protect it from breaking.
3.5 Test the assembly for air-tightness by squeezing the bulb and holding a finger over the inlet end
of the detector. If the bulb remains deflated, the assembly is air-tight.
4.0 TESTING PROCEDURE (MSA)

4.1 Place the end of the detector tube in the atmosphere to be tested. Be careful to keep the end of
the tube out of liquids.
4.2 Squeeze the aspirator bulb firmly, then release and allow it to fully expand.
NOTE: If the chemical in the glass tube shows a dark stain after one squeeze, multiply the
reading by 10 to estimate the real concentration of H2S present in the sample stream.
4.3 If no change in coloration, after one squeeze, aspirate the bulb nine more times (total 10) to take
the correct amount of sample through the detector tube.
4.4 After 10 squeezes, read the H2S concentration in ppm direct onto the scale.
NOTE: No additional squeezes of the bulb are required since the detector tube is inserted
onto the end of the sampling line.
5.0 OPERATION OF DRAGER H2S DETECTOR (AMS #21-323-000)

The following instructions shall be followed by a certified gas testing personnel holding a valid gas
testing certificate:
5.1 Check the belows pump for leaks before each series of tests.
5.2 Select the type of detector tube required; initially a 0 - 60 ppm range tube is preferred. Check
the expiry date - DO NOT USE OUT-OF-DATE DETECTOR TUBES.
5.3 Break the ends of the detector tube and insert in the pump head with the arrow pointing towards
the pump.
5.4 Hold the pump in a vertical position.
5.5 Squeeze the pump firmly. When the limit chain is taut, the bellows has taken a full sample.

YAS 6 OF 17
SUPPLEMENT 2.708- 1
5.6 If there is no discoloration after one aspiration, squeeze the pump nine more times (10 total).
Read the discoloration on the tube scale. The tubes are graduated and the results can be read
directly off the tube as ppm of H2S.
5.7 If the detector tube (0-60 ppm range) has turned completely dark, more than 60 ppm H2S is
present in the sampling atmosphere. Repeat the test procedure using a higher range (0-500
ppm) tube to determine the approximate concentration of H2S present in the atmosphere.
5.8 Remove the detector tube and flush out the pump with clean air by squeezing the bellows
several times.
5.9 Discard all used and also expired (out-of-date) detector tubes.
6.0 SAFETY
6.1 The person using the detector must not enter an atmosphere known or suspected to be hazardous
to make a test, without supplied air respiratory protection (Scott Air-Pak or airline hose mask).
6.2 Use gloves to protect hands when installing detector tubes in the detector.
6.3 Use only red-tipped MSA detector tubes in the MSA detector.
6.4 It is not considered necessary to check the detector against a standard gas.
6.5 Prior to each test, a new detector tube should be used. Used detector tubes should be discarded.
6.6 Take samples from different locations to ensure that there are no pockets of H2S trapped in a
vessel.
6.7 There might be other toxic gases or vapors present in the vessel, e.g. chlorine (C12), ammonia
(NH3), etc. which can be detected and measured using appropriate Drager tubes. Safety
procedures appropriate for these gases should also be followed.
6.8 Breaking-off the tips of the tube
6.8.1 Tips of detector tubes shall be broken off using the break-off eyelet, holding it away from
the eyes to ensure that glass splinters do not get into the eyes or fall onto the floor.
6.9 Destroying Detector Tubes
6.9.1 Detector tubes contain small amounts of corrosive constituents. Therefore, used or un-
used tubes should not be carelessly discarded.

YAS 7 OF 17
SUPPLEMENT 2.708- 1
6.9.2 To destroy detector tubes, the open tube shall be placed in a container of water. This di-
lutes the reagent system. The tube shall then be thrown in a trash bin.
6.9.3 If several unused tubes are to be destroyed at the same time, a little soda or lime should
be added to the water to neutralize the components of the reagent system.
7.0 ENTERING H2S ATMOSPHERES:

Entering an atmosphere containing H2S may be permitted, only when the conditions are met as per GI
2.100.
8.0 MAINTENANCE (DRAGER):

8.1 Drager Gas Tester
8.1.1 Leak Testing
Leak testing shall be done every time the pump is used. The pump shall be sealed with
an unopened Drager tube. The belows should then be completely compressed. The
pump is sufficiently air-tight if the bellows has not expanded completely after 10
minutes.
8.1.2 Eliminating Leaks
Leaks should be eliminated by cleaning the valve. The pump shall be sent to an
instrument shop for cleaning.
8.1.3 Cleaning of the metal screen
After prolonged use of the bellows pump, the wire mesh sieve under the rubber bung in
the pump head may become blocked. The sieve therefore shall be cleaned periodically
(at least once every 3 months). It may be necessary to clean it at shorter intervals if the
pump is used frequently. Cleaning shall be done by instrument shop personnel.
8.2 MSA H2S Detector
8.2.1 Keep the detector in its case when not in use and store in a cool place.
8.2.2 If the detector flow control valve leaks or the detector fails the air-tightness test, send the
detector to an instrument shop for repair.
9.0 INTERPRETATION OF READING (MSA):

9.1 If hydrogen sulfide is present, the chemical in the glass tube will show a dark stain.

YAS 8 OF 17
SUPPLEMENT 2.708- 1
9.2 Rotate the scale until the 0 - 50 ppm H2S scale is under the glass tube, and slide the scale until
the zero is in line with the beginning of the dark stain.
9.2.1 If a tube at the end of a hose is used, hold that tube so that the beginning of the dark stain
is in line with the zero on the scale.
9.3 Read the concentration of hydrogen sulfide, in parts per million (PPM), on the scale at the end
of the discolored chemical. Read the average stain length if the stain is uneven.
9.3.1 If 10 strokes were used, read the scale directly in parts per million (ppm).

YAS 9 OF 17
SUPPLEMENT 7.08- 2
SUPPLEMENT 7.08- 2
1.0 PURPOSE:
1.1 a) The Bacharach Model K-25 Oxygen Indicator (AMS #21-342-550) is used to test and
determine oxygen content of the atmosphere inside a vessel, tank, manhole, sewer, or
other contained space, to aid in the protection of personnel having to work in these
areas.
b) The atmosphere normally contains approximately 21% oxygen by volume. There

should be at least 20% oxygen by volume for people to enter a vessel. Below 20%
supplied air breathing apparatus shall be worn.
1.2 If Turnaround and Inspection (T&I) of a vessel is to be allowed in the presence of flammables
such as butane, propane, etc., then an oxygen indicator shall be used to ensure that the oxygen
content of that vessel does not exceed 5% by volume.
1.3 To ensure meaningful combustible gas tests, oxygen indicators shall be used prior to the J.W.
Sniffer Model G test to determine that sufficient oxygen concentration is present for the validity
of J.W. Sniffer reading (criterion for hydrocarbon fuels is 12% oxygen by volume but preferred
to have at least 16% oxygen by volume).
2.0 OPERATION:
The following operating instructions shall be followed by certified gas testing personnel:
2.1 Test the assembly for air-tightness by squeezing the bulb and holding a finger over the inlet end.
If the bulb remains deflated, the assembly is air-tight.
2.2 Turn the switch "ON" by rotating the knob clockwise. As the instrument is equipped with a
free-turning clutch, the knob must be lifted up to engage the clutch.
2.3 Draw fresh atmospheric air into the instrument. A slight fluctuation and decrease in reading
will be observed, due to reduction in pressure within the instrument.
2.4 Allow to stabilize (about 10 seconds), then turn the "CALIBRATE" control to bring the meter
reading to 21% as marked on the dial.
2.5 Insert the sampling hose (if required) into the space to be tested. Pump the bulb 10 times,
watching the meter.

YAS 10 OF 17
SUPPLEMENT 7.08- 2
2.6 Take the reading about 10 seconds after cessation of pumping when the meter has restabilized.
The meter reads the direct percentage oxygen in the sample.
2.7 Turn off the switch by turning the control knob in a counter clockwise direction.
3.0 SAFETY:
Prior to entry into a confined space, the following tests shall be performed:
3.1 Test for the presence of toxic gases, e.g. H2S.
3.2 Check the oxygen content.
3.3 If sufficient oxygen i.e. above 12% by volume, then test for the presence of combustible gases.
3.4 If no toxic or combustible gases are detected and the oxygen concentration is at least 20%, entry
is considered safe.
3.5 If no toxic or combustible gases are detected but oxygen concentration is less than 20%,
supplied air respiratory protection shall be worn prior to entry.
4.0 LIMITATIONS:
4.1 The instrument is designed for detection of oxygen in gaseous samples. Direct contact of the
cell with any liquid should be avoided. If liquid is drawn into the instrument, it should be sent to
the instrument shop so the cell may be flushed out.
4.2 Interfering Gases
4.2.1 If present in unusually high concentrations, the following gases will interfere: sulfur di-
oxide, chlorine, and oxides of nitrogen. (The maximum error will amount to less than
2% oxygen for each 1% of interfering gas). Strong acidic gases may damage the cell to
the extent that it requires activation.
4.2.2 The most commonly encountered interfering gas is carbon dioxide, which, if exposed to
the cell for a sustained period of time (10 minutes or more) will enter into a secondary
chemical reaction producing an erroneously high oxygen reading. This characteristic
prevents continuous use of the Model K-25 for checking flue gas or similar samples that
are high in CO2.
4.2.3 This does not prevent taking useful readings on such samples provided exposure is brief
and the cell is subsequently purged with fresh air.

YAS 11 OF 17
SUPPLEMENT 7.08- 2
5.0 MAINTENANCE:
5.1 When not in use, the oxygen indicator should be stored indoors and in an upright position.
5.2 The meter is shunted for greater protection of the movement when the switch is turned off.
Normal life of the cells is 50 operating hours.
5.3 Operation of the instrument is normal if the meter can be set to read 21% with atmospheric air.
A convenient test to prove response is to set the calibration and then blow slowly into the
indicator inlet. As the lungs become exhausted, the reading will lower, a reduction to 15%
being normal.
5.4 To check performance near 0% (zero) oxygen, admit a small steady stream of oxygen-free gas
to the inlet, such as nitrogen or natural gas. A cell in good condition will give a zero reading. A
reading of 1% or more indicates a need for reactivation.
5.5 Sampling Hose and Probe
5.5.1 In many cases it is advisable to use a combination sampling hose and probe (AMS #21-
342-485, 494) in conjunction with the Model K-25 Oxygen Indicator. This allows the
operator to take samples from remote locations, constricted openings, or inaccessible
places.
5.5.2 Probs have dust filter chambers which prevent any foreign matter from being drawn into
the sampling line. A cotton filter is used in the chamber and is easily replaceable.

YAS 12 OF 17
SUPPLEMENT 7.08-3
SUPPLEMENT 7.08-3
1.0 PURPOSE:
1.1 The J-W Sniffer Model G (AMS #21-342-456) is used for determining the presence and
concentration of combustible gases or vapors in air.
1.2 The J-W Sniffer Model G may be used in the following situations:
1.2.1 To check for leaks at places such as joints, valves, pump seals, etc., or accumulation of
combustible gases or vapors at locations such as fuel storage tanks, manholes, sewers,
trenches, process vessels, hydrocarbon or other fuel pipelines and any other places han-
dling combustible materials.
1.2.2 To check the progress of ventilation in lowering concentrations of combustible gases or
vapors in air.
1.2.3 To check if the specific jobs such as hot work, cold work or confined space entry, etc.,
may be permitted in "restricted areas" prior to issuing of the work permits.
2.0 OPERATION:
2.1 Preliminary Tests
The following steps should be taken prior to each gas test performed:
2.1.1 Turn the Sniffer "ON" by rotating the rubber bulb on its connecting swivel 180o clock-
wise.
2.1.2 Tightness or leak check - air leaks in the instrument can have a dilution effect and can
result in much lower readings than the actual fuel concentration present. Check the in-
strument for its tightness as follows:
i. Squeeze the aspirator bulb while the Sniffer is in the "ON" position.
ii. Put a thumb or a forefinger of your other hand at the inlet point of the
sampling hose.
iii. Release the aspirator bulb.
iv. If the aspirator bulb holds vacuum for approximately 5 seconds this means
that all connections onto the Sniffer are reasonably tight.

YAS 13 OF 17
SUPPLEMENT 7.08-3
v. If the aspirator bulb inflates quickly then there is a leak in the system which
needs to be corrected before progressing further. The detector should be
taken to an instrument shop for repair.
2.1.3 Voltage check - a specified voltage is necessary for the Sniffer to operate reliably which
must be checked as follows:
i. Turn the Sniffer to the "ON" position
ii. Press the "Volt Test" button using your left hand. The needle pointer should
point to the arrow on the scale reading 0.6.
iii. When necessary, lift the "Volt Adj" knob and turn it to set the needle pointer,
on the arrow, to read 0.6 on the meter scale. Then release the volt test button
and the volt adjustment knob.
New batteries should be fitted if the needle pointer cannot be adjusted to the
required voltage.
NOTE: Replacement of the batteries should be conducted inside a control

room or an instrument shop. Batteries must not be changed in
electrically classified areas or where hydrocarbons would be
present.
2.1.4 Zero adjustment - Lift the "Zero Adj" knob and turn it back and forth to set the needle
pointer to read zero on the meter scale.
2.1.5 After taking a reading, clear the Sniffer by placing the probe in fresh air and squeezing
the bulb until the needle pointer returns to zero.
2.2 Calibration Test
To check if the instrument is still in good working order and it has not lost its sensitivity from
poisoning (also see Sec. 3.1) of the detecting element, the J-W Sniffer Model G shall be tested
each day or after a series of tests with a known composition of methane-in-air mixture using the
test kit (AMS #21-374-211).
The test procedure is outlined on the shaker bottle of the test kit. Briefly, the calibration mixture
is made up by breaking one ampule of methane in the plastic shaker bottle. The mixture of
methane-in-air is then injected into the pre-checked (as described in Sec. 2.1) J-W Sniffer Model
G.
a) The instrument should give a reading of 0.2 on the scale if it is in good working order.

YAS 14 OF 17
SUPPLEMENT 7.08-3
b) However, if the Sniffer does not give the expected 0.2 reading, then the instrument
should be sent to an instrument shop for repair or replacement.
Caution: Sniffing vapors of gasoline or butane gas from cigarette lighters can give erroneous
readings and shall not be done.
2.3 Making Gas Tests
2.3.1 Ensure that a fresh cotton filter is inserted into the filter chamber of the sampling probe
prior to connecting it to the sampling hose. Then, connect the hose onto the sample
union.
2.3.2 Ensure that checks outlined in section 2.1 and 2.2 have been made. If any of these checks
is unsatisfactory, the Sniffer shall not be used.
2.3.3 If the Sniffer is found satisfactory, then it should be used as follows:
i. Switch the Sniffer to the "ON" position.
ii. Adjust the needle pointer to give a zero reading in clean air.
iii. Insert the sampling end of the probe (AMS #21-342-494) or hose (AMS #21-
342-485) into the space to be tested, avoiding contact with any liquids.
iv. Aspirate sufficiently long enough to ensure a representative sample from the
space to be tested. As a general guideline,
a minimum 3 or 4 squeezes are required if no sampling hose attached.
b at least 3 additional squeezes are needed for each 5 feet of sampling
hose attached.
v. The maximum observed reading on the scale should be noted as the correct
reading for the purpose of making safety decisions.
2.3.4 After taking a reading, clear the Sniffer by placing the probe or hose in fresh air and
squeezing the bulb until the meter pointer returns to zero. Release the bulb and switch
the Sniffer to the "OFF" position.
2.3.5 The meter scale of the Sniffer is graduated in decimal numbers from 0.1 to 1.0 of the low-
er explosive limit (LEL). The range from 0.2 to 1.0 on the scale is considered as 'DAN-
GEROUS' and is indicated by yellow paint. The explosive point 1.0 (i.e. 100% LEL)
represents the leanest mixture of fuel gas or vapor in air which will burn or explode if
ignited.
2.3.6 If the sample is too rich to ignite it is above the upper explosive limit (UEL) concentra-
tion and the needle pointer will first rise sharply to the end of the scale and then it will
fall quickly back to either zero or a reading below 1.0, giving a false indication. There-

YAS 15 OF 17
SUPPLEMENT 7.08-3
fore, continuous and careful attention to the scale from the start of sampling is absolutely
essential.
NOTE: If in doubt about the reading under such circumstances, withdraw the
sample line from the space to be tested and start drawing fresh air into the
Sniffer. The meter pointer will soon start to rise up the scale and when all
the fuel concentration is exhausted it will return to zero. This indicates that
the atmosphere on test is above the UEL. This should be confirmed by
repeating a gas test.
3.0 LIMITATIONS:
The J-W. Sniffer Model G has certain limitations in its use and these must be considered to avoid
potentially dangerous consequences.
3.1 Poisoning
The J-W Sniffer Model G is susceptible to poisoning of the sensor head when exposed to vapors
containing appreciable concentrations of contaminants such as:
a. tetraethyl lead (from leaded gasoline or its sludge)
b. hydrogen sulfide (from sour streams)
c. silicon compounds from greases, etc.
The effect of these poisons is to efficiently reduce the sensitivity of the Sniffer. Therefore, the
safe use of the Sniffer depends critically on regular calibration (as described in Sec. 2.2) to
ensure satisfactory operation.
3.2 Humidity
High humidity will affect the reading of the Sniffer. The following steps should be taken to
overcome the humidity problem:
i Ensure samples are drawn through cotton wool filters (AMS #21-342-501) which will
absorb the moisture from the sample stream.
ii Replace saturated cotton wool filters.
iii Avoid any direct contact with liquids.

YAS 16 OF 17
SUPPLEMENT 7.08-3
3.3 Presence of Inert Gases
J-W Sniffer Model G is designed to operate on the principle of heat of combustion which
requires the presence of air. Readings of the Sniffer are meaningless and often misleading if the
Sniffer is used to determine the presence of flammable gases or vapors inside a vessel deficient
in oxygen (generally less than 12% for hydrocarbons) i.e. atmospheres containing inert gases
such as nitrogen, carbon dioxide, steam, etc. Preferred oxygen concentration of a sample on test
is above 16% by volume.
The vessel therefore must be purged with air prior to gas testing or, if this is not feasible, other
laboratory techniques such as gas chromatographic analysis, should be used to determine the
presence of fuel gas or vapor.
3.4 Hot Gases or Vapors
Heavy oils and asphalts (bitumen) give off flammable vapors when hot and may not be detected
satisfactorily as they are likely to condense inside the Sniffer and adversely affect the detecting
head.
3.5 Sampling tube Material
Only the Aramco recommended sampling probe (AMS #21-342-494) and/or hose (AMS #21-
342-485) shall be used. The use of other materials such as rubber hose may absorb some fuel
vapors which can result in misleading lower readings.
3.6 Oxygen Enriched Atmospheres
Detecting elements can burn out in the presence of oxygen enriched atmospheres. The Sniffer
therefore must not be used on mixtures of combustible gases or vapors and pure oxygen.
3.7 Acids and Other Corrosive Mists
The Sniffer shall not be used where vapors of acids, e.g. sulfuric, nitric and hydrochloric acid
and other corrosive mists are present. These can corrode the detecting element and the
instrument in general.
3.8 Batteries
When the voltage supply cannot be adjusted to read 0.6 on the scale, the batteries should be
replaced. Do not use the J.W. Sniffer if the voltage supply is insufficient.

YAS 17 OF 17
SUPPLEMENT 7.08-3
3.9 Rapid Air Movement
The Sniffer is designed to operate on a diffusion principle. Samples must not be forced into the
Sniffer since this causes rapid air movement which can have a cooling effect on the detecting
element and will give much lower readings than the actual concentration present.
3.10 Zero Adjustment Clean Air
Zero adjustment in clean air is important. Readings obtained can be potentially dangerous if the
Sniffer is adjusted, to give a zero reading, inside atmospheres contaminated with fuel gases or
vapors.
3.11 Liquids
The Sniffer is designed to detect the presence of flammable gases and/or vapors in atmospheres.
Care must be taken to avoid drawing any liquids inside the instrument since this can give
misleading readings and can also ruin the detecting element.
4.0 SAFETY:
4.1 The J-W Sniffer is equipped with a standard flame arrestor to give protection against a flashback
in the most violently explosive mixtures of any combustible gas and air.
4.2 In areas of suspected gaseous toxic contamination, the operator must wear a Scott Air-Pak while
conducting the gas tests.
4.3 To ensure that air is safe to breathe and is not contaminated with toxic gases or vapors e.g. H2S,
CO, etc, a suitable gas detector such as Drager Multi-Gas Tester (AMS #21-323-000) must be
used.
NOTE: The J-W Sniffer cannot detect a toxic concentration of H2S. An appropriate chemical
tube detector must therefore be used to determine the presence of H2S.
4.4 The J-W Sniffer is designed to operate on the principle of heat of combustion which requires the
presence of oxygen (see also 4.3). Oxygen concentration of sample steams should be checked
using Bacharach Model K25 Oxygen Indicator prior to the J-W Sniffer test.

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Saudi Aramco 7180 (5/89)

G.I. NUMBER Approved

1.0 DIVISION/UNIT HEAD SHALL ENSURE:

* CHANGE ** ADDITION NEW INSTRUCTION COMPLETE REVISION X 17

2.0 LOSS PREVENTION DEPARTMENT IS RESPONSIBLE:

3.0 CERTIFIED GAS TESTING PERSONNEL SHALL ENSURE:

4.0 INSTRUMENT SHOP SUPERVISOR SHALL ENSURE:

* CHANGE ** ADDITION NEW INSTRUCTION COMPLETE REVISION X 17

* CHANGE ** ADDITION NEW INSTRUCTION COMPLETE REVISION X 17

3.0 PREPARATION FOR USING MSA H2S DETECTOR (AMS #21-322-

ii. then, attach the flexible sampling hose.

iii. then, perform a leak test.

* CHANGE ** ADDITION NEW INSTRUCTION COMPLETE REVISION X 17

4.0 TESTING PROCEDURE (MSA)

5.0 OPERATION OF DRAGER H2S DETECTOR (AMS #21-323-000)

5.4 Hold the pump in a vertical position.

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6.8 Breaking-off the tips of the tube

6.9 Destroying Detector Tubes

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7.0 ENTERING H2S ATMOSPHERES:

8.0 MAINTENANCE (DRAGER):

8.1.1 Leak Testing

8.2 MSA H2S Detector

9.0 INTERPRETATION OF READING (MSA):

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b) The atmosphere normally contains approximately 21% oxygen by volume. There

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3.1 Test for the presence of toxic gases, e.g. H2S.

3.2 Check the oxygen content.

4.2 Interfering Gases

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5.5 Sampling Hose and Probe

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iii. Release the aspirator bulb.

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i. Turn the Sniffer to the "ON" position

NOTE: Replacement of the batteries should be conducted inside a control

2.2 Calibration Test

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2.3 Making Gas Tests

i. Switch the Sniffer to the "ON" position.

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a. tetraethyl lead (from leaded gasoline or its sludge)

b. hydrogen sulfide (from sour streams)

c. silicon compounds from greases, etc.

ii Replace saturated cotton wool filters.

iii Avoid any direct contact with liquids.

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3.3 Presence of Inert Gases

3.4 Hot Gases or Vapors

3.5 Sampling tube Material

3.6 Oxygen Enriched Atmospheres

3.7 Acids and Other Corrosive Mists

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3.9 Rapid Air Movement

3.10 Zero Adjustment Clean Air

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