1. Compressed Air Safety

2. 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

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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. 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

11. 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

12. 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.

13. 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.

14. 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.

15. 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?

16. Where to Get More Information