Air Compressors

Air compressors are used for many purposes throughout the industry; they supply air for pneumatic tools and breathing air to respirators. Compressed air is used for tasks such as sandblasting, cleaning, painting, and operating hoists. The tanks need to be maintained and stored in a proper manner and the air not be used for that which it is not intended.

An air compressor works by mechanically decreasing the volume of air increasing its pressure. During compression the temperature of the air increases.

Hazards

Since air is under pressure it has the hazards associated with compressed gasses, these include the following.

Flammable: flammable gases catch fire easily and burn quickly. If you were to add flammability to a compression hazard you would have some extremely dangerous materials.

High-pressure: when a high-pressure cylinder accidentally ruptures or when the valve breaks off rocketing can occur. If the pressure of the contents increases enough it can drive the cylinder, turning it into a missile that can blast its way right through a concrete wall.

Carbon monoxide: if an air compressor is used inside of a building or other structure carbon monoxide may build up.

Breathing air: if the air compressor is to be used to supply air to a respirator it must produce grade D or better breathing air.

Air compressors should be located so that the suction does not take in flammable vapors or corrosive gases. There is a potential for fire should a leak occur in gas compressors. Safe work practices and the appropriate personal protective equipment may be needed for exposure to hazards such as noise during inspections and maintenance activities being conducted.

If the compressor is being used to supply breathing air the compressors must be equipped with suitable in-line air-purifying sorbent beds and filters to further assure breathing air purity.

Note: as always you need to be aware of any state requirements which are more stringent than their federal counterparts and that may apply to your facility.

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