When using compressed air and pneumatic tools, always remember that it must be handled with extreme caution – it is a gas under pressure. It can, therefore, be extremely dangerous. If mishandled, it can cause serious injury to the one operating it or those in close proximity. Moreover, compressed air should not be used to clean work spaces where heavy objects may become dislodged and become projectiles that can come into contact with the body.
Working with Compressed Air
Best practices while working:
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- Safety goggles and other appropriate protective equipment must be worn.
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- Inspection of the air compression unit and its attachments should be carried out before it is used. It must also be stated that broken or damaged equipment must not be utilised.
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- When making use of a gas or diesel-powered unit, there must be suitable controls to limit the build-up of carbon monoxide.
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- The correct fittings and hose sizes should always be used. The connections of these fittings must also be tight, ensuring that they do not come loose when put under pressure.
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- The system must be turned off when the system is not in use.
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- The hose should not be twisted or bent to restrict or stop air flow.
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- Air hoses should also be kept out of doorways to avoid tripping hazards or damage to the hose itself.
- The compressed air tanks/cylinders must also be kept away from great deals of heat. The gas can explode when exposed to large portions of heat.
The Dangers of Pneumatic Tools
They are powered by compressed air, making them exceptionally powerful and the object that is utilised, such as a nail, move at high speed. This poses a wealth of safety issues. Combining high power and speed onto a sharp object like a nail could cause grave injury if the tool were to be mishandled/malfunction in some way, even causing fatal injury in other circumstances.
Principles of Safe Work
Workers who are using pneumatic tools must be given the appropriate training and safe working instruction. Only trained and experienced workers should be granted the ability to operate pneumatic tools:
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- Maintain pneumatic tools in accordance to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Operate pneumatic tools in accordance to the manufacturer’s instructions.
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- Always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hearing protection due to the consistent loud noises and eye protection to avoid any injuries to the eyes from projectiles.
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- Tools should be checked before use. If a tool is damaged then it must not be used, it should be marked and then repaired or removed from the working site.
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- Familiarity with safety mechanisms is a must.
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- Ensure no air leaks, secure connections are vital.
- Attachments should only be used when they are specifically designed for the device that is being used. Checking the manufacturer’s instructions is always the best bet if you are unsure.
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- Always treat devices as ‘loaded’, this means that they should never be pointed at any other person and should be handled with care.
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- Warning signs should be erected when pneumatic tools are in use.
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- Keep your hands away from the discharge area.
- Do not attempt to modify the tool in any way.
Download the free HSE Guide on: Compressed Air Safety
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