Weekly Safety Meeting – Air Compressors

Compressed air is present across just about every industry. Companies use compressed air for many applications, from running huge equipment to powering simple air tools. Compressed air is a valuable utility, and it is a safe power source when used properly. As with any other energy carrying power source however, compressed air should be regarded with caution and handled with care in order to avoid accidents and injury.

There are two main external safety features associated with a pressure vessel. These are the pressure cut out switch and the pressure relief valve. The pressure cut off switch is a pressure sensitive device. When the pressure drops below a pre-set level, it closes and the compressor starts. When the pressure reaches a pre-set upper limit, the switch opens and the pump stops. It is simple to check this switch. Watch the pressure gauge on the tank. The pump should shut off before or at the working pressure, or the pressure shown on the Permit to Operate. If it does, fine. If not, tell your supervisor.

General Safety Requirements for Compressed Air:

• All pipes, hoses, and fittings must have a rating of the maximum pressure of the compressor. Compressed air pipelines should be identified (pi) as to maximum working pressure;
• Air supply shutoff valves should be located (as near as possible) at the point-of-operation;
• Air hoses should be kept free of grease and oil to reduce the possibility of deterioration;
• Hoses should not be strung across floors or aisles where they are liable to cause personnel to trip and fall. When possible, air supply hoses should be suspended overhead or otherwise located to afford efficient access and protection against damage;
• Hose ends must be secured to prevent whipping if an accidental cut or break occurs;
• Pneumatic impact tools, such as riveting guns, should never be pointed at a person;
• Before a pneumatic tool is disconnected (unless it has quick disconnect plugs), the air supply must be turned off at the control valve and the tool bled;
• Compressed air must not be used under any circumstances to clean dirt and dust from clothing or off a person’s skin. Shop air used for cleaning should be regulated to 15 psi unless equipped with diffuser nozzles to provide lesser pressure;
• Personnel using compressed air for cleaning equipment must wear goggles, face shields, or other eye protection; and
• Static electricity can be generated through the use of pneumatic tools. This type of equipment must be grounded or bonded if it is used where fuel, flammable vapors, or explosive atmospheres are present.

Air Compressor Operation:

• Only authorized and trained personnel should operate air compressor equipment;
• The air intake should be from a clean, outside fresh air source. Screens or filters can be used to clean the air;
• Air compressors should NEVER be operated at speeds faster than the manufacturer’s recommendation;
• Equipment should not become overheated; and
• Moving parts that could be hazardous, such as compressor flywheels, pulleys, and belts, should be effectively guarded.

Ensure that air tanks and compressors are inspected regularly, maintained in a safe and operational condition, serviced on a regular basis using OEM (original equipment manufacturer) oil, and that all repairs and servicing are documented.

SAFETY IS A FRAME OF MIND…SO CONCENTRATE ON IT…ALL THE TIME!!