Compressed air is often misjudged and not recognized as a hazard because people think of air as harmless.

• Air forced into body tissues through skin can cause an air embolism (air bubbles in the bloodstream) which can be fatal if it reaches the heart, lungs, or brain.

• Inflation injuries of the intestine can be caused by air being directed at private body areas. A worker in the U.K. died of injuries sustained through horseplay with a compressed air hose. The act of horseplay can be deadly!

• Air blown into the mouth at only 5 PSI can rupture the esophagus or the lungs.

• Eye and ear injuries can occur from a blast of air or flying particles. These types of eye and ear injuries can cause partial or total loss of sight and hearing.

• The sound from a compressed air hose can reach 120-130 dB which is well above OSHA’s 90dB permissible exposure limit.

• 40 PSI can blow out an ear drum from 4 inches away and possibly cause brain damage.

• As little as 12 PSI can blow an eye out of its socket!

• Flying particles can cause cuts and bruises to any part of the body.

Remember:

• Hoses and lines should be rated to meet the maximum operating pressure of the equipment.

• Always wear proper Personal Protective Equipment:

• Safety glasses with side shields and a face shield if needed

• Hearing protection

• Respiratory protection, depending on the material(s) being worked with

• Normal work clothing is not protection against compressed air.

• If you must clean with compressed air, do not use air that is set above 30 PSI. You must also have effective chip guarding and proper PPE (OSHA standard 1910.242(b)).

• NEVER USE COMPRESSED AIR TO CLEAN CLOTHING OR HAIR!

• NEVER POINT COMPRESSED AIR AT YOURSELF OR ANOTHER PERSON!

Action Item:

Go through the manufacturer’s safety recommendations in the air compressor’s safety manual and read and understand the maintenance requirements for the compressor.

Resources and References:

VOSHA/OSHA Standards 29CFR1910.135 and 1926.100 for more information Standards are available at http://www.osha.gov/laws-regs.html