Compressed Air Safety

Introduction Compressed air is second only to electricity as the most popular source of energy used in today’s work environments Because electricity isn’t associated with compressed air most people don’t recognize the dangers posed by this energy Just like electricity, compressed air can be deadly if not treated with respect & used safely

Today’s Presentation Why is Compressed Air So Popular? Compressed Air Equipment Safety How to Use Compressed Air Safely Review Quiz

Why is Compressed Air So Popular? Its readily available, easily stored and distributed Can be generated using electric motors or gas engines It’s a very reliable power source It’s used for pressure application of 80 to100 PSI vs. where as hydraulic is used for 1000 PSI or greater

Why is Compressed Air So Popular? It’s a compressible gas and therefore absorbs shock better than hydraulic systems Tools have a large power to weight & size ratio when compared to similar electric tools Tools can be operated indefinitely with out fears of overheating

Why is Compressed Air So Popular? Overloading the tools simply stops it and doesn’t damage them as opposed to electric tools Can be used in wet environments as opposed to electrical tools Can be used in explosive environments e.g. Mining, tunneling and explosive manufacturing

Compressed Air Equipment Safety Regularly drain moisture from the air tank to prevent rust & tool contamination Ensure the safety relief valves are present and working Ensure the compressor drive guarding is in place as compressors start automatically

Compressed Air Equipment Safety All components must be rated for the maximum pressure of the compressor. Air supply shutoff valves should be located (as near as possible) at the point-of-operation.

Compressed Air Equipment Safety Air hoses should be kept grease & oil free to reduce the possibility of deterioration. Hoses should not be strung across floors or aisles where they create trip hazards. When possible, air supply hoses should be dropped from overhead.

Compressed Air Equipment Safety Hose ends must be secured to prevent whipping if accidentally cut Never use raw compressed air for supplied air breathing systems Always lock-out & release compressed air before working on it. It’s a source of stored energy

How to Use Compressed Air Safely Always inspect compressed air equipment before use, a loose air hose can be a dangerous bullwhip and can seriously injure or kill the user When using compressed air always wear safety glasses & other appropriate PPE for example hearing protection, or face shield. Noise above 85db requires protection

How to Use Compressed Air Safely Never use compressed air as a practical joke Never point an air hose or tool at any part of your body or another person Compressed air must never be used under any circumstances to clean dirt and dust from clothing or off a person’s skin.

How to Use Compressed Air Safely When shop air must be used for cleaning it must be regulated to 15 psi or less unless equipped with diffuser nozzles. ¾’s of all injuries occur when debris is blown into an eye, ear or face. Even 12 psi of compressed air can be driven into the flesh or eyes. Air can be driven into blood creating embolisms causing strokes or death.

How to Use Compressed Air Safely Before disconnecting an air tool shut off the air supply and bleed the tool. (unless it has quick disconnects) Static electricity can be generated through the use of air tools. Grounding must be used where explosive atmospheres can be present.

Summary Today I have covered: Why is Compressed Air So Popular Compressed Air Equipment Safety How to Use Compressed Air Safely And Provided a Review Quiz Are they any Questions?

Where to Get More Information www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/compressed_air.html www.youtube.com/watch?v=IdVx220PNRE www.octe.on.ca/resources/health-and-safety/health-safety www.scif.com/safety/HazardChecklists.html