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HCHO/TVOC measuring device BQ16
Intended use
This device is intended for measuring concentrations of HCHO
(formaldehyde) and TVOC (volatile organic compounds) in the
indoor air.
To use the device for its intended use, only use accessories and
spare parts which have been approved by Trotec.
Improper use
The device may not be used for measurements in liquids.
The device may not be used in potentially explosive
atmospheres, when wet or very humid.
Any unauthorised changes, modifications or alterations to the
device are forbidden.
Personnel qualifications
People who use this device must:
•
be aware of the dangers that occur when working in
environments contaminated with formaldehyde.
•
have read and understood the operating manual, especially
the Safety chapter.
Residual risks
Warning
Risk of suffocation!
Do not leave the packaging lying around. Children may
use it as a dangerous toy.
Warning
The device is not a toy and does not belong in the
hands of children.
Warning
Dangers can occur at the device when it is used by
untrained people in an unprofessional or improper way!
Observe the personnel qualifications!
Caution
Keep a sufficient distance from heat sources.
Note
To prevent damages to the device, do not expose it to
extreme temperatures, extreme humidity or moisture.
Note
Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents to clean the
device.
Information about the device
Device description
The measuring device allows to easily and quickly monitor the
air quality with respect to the content of formaldehyde (HCHO)
and volatile organic compounds (TVOC).
Furthermore, a MAX/MIN function and a HOLD function are
available for assessment of the measurements.
The measuring device comes equipped with a selectable display
illumination.
When not in use, an automatic switch-off saves the battery.
Examples for formaldehyde concentration in the air
Formaldehyde is a colourless gas which is often contained in
the room air. Depending on the personal sensitivity, it is
perceived as a pungent odour above certain concentrations.
Formaldehyde, also referred to as HCHO or methanal, was
assigned to the hazard class Carcinogenic/category 1B and
Germ cell mutagenic/category 2 with effect from 1 January
2016. Even small quantities of formaldehyde in the room air
may affect human health. The consequences include
concentration disorders, nervousness, headaches, dizziness, but
also nausea, swelling of mucosa, conjunctival irritations and
lacrimation. In extremely high concentrations, formaldehyde can
cause pneumonia or toxic pulmonary oedema and is therefore
fatal.
Moreover, the substance is suspected of having a sensitizing
effect on the body with respect to allergies, and of promoting an
aggravation of asthmatic symptoms. It is assumed that the
adverse health impact of formaldehyde is not caused by the
isolated substance but by mixtures of pollutants (VOC/TVOC)
containing formaldehyde.
The following specifications serve as guide values, which were
determined in international studies. They are not binding since
the listed symptoms strongly depend on personal sensitivity!
0.05 to 0.125 ppm Odour threshold
0.01 to 1.6 ppm
Irritation of mucous membranes (nose,
throat) and eyes
2.0 to 3.0 ppm
Stinging in the nose, eyes, throat
4.0 to 5.0 ppm
Bearable for 30 minutes, increasing
discomfort, lacrimation
10.0 to 20.0 ppm
Strong lacrimation already after a few
minutes of exposure (lasting for up to
1 hour after exposure), immediate
breathlessness, coughing, severe burning
in throat, nose and eyes
30 ppm
Toxic pulmonary oedema, pneumonia, risk
of death!
