5 Smart Industrial Air Compressor Safety Tips for Novice Jobsite Managers

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As a novice jobsite manager, your main safety focus may remain centered on the cutting, drilling and welding equipment used throughout the site. Industrial air compressors, on the other hand, are commonly regarded as a relatively safe piece of equipment. As a result, the safety culture surrounding the use of this industrial equipment type may be somewhat lax.

Unfortunately, without close adherence to safety standards, an uptick in preventable equipment failures or workplace accidents may occur. You can require that your workers regularly review safety tips for air compressors to remain in compliance and help prevent incidents on the jobsite. Adding the following industrial air compressor safety tips to your training materials and displayed signage can improve workplace safety considerably.

Check Grounding Wires

Before you ever flip on the air compressor machinery, you must check the wiring to ensure your electrical connections look up to par. You should inspect the wiring from the motor connection to the plug. If you notice any damage to the wires or insulation, you should plan to have the equipment repaired by a qualified professional. You may also want to have your outlets inspected to ensure the grounding wires are connected to the outlet plate. Otherwise, the grounds will not work properly, possibly resulting in electric shock.

Set the Valves

Your air compressor equipment utilizes a pressure tester and safety valve to prevent catastrophic failures. You must set the safety relief valve in between your operating pressure and the system limitations. In general, it is recommended to keep the safety valve set about 10% above the required operating pressure. With the valve set right, it will release pressure building up in the tank to keep the equipment within its given limitations. To maintain a safe workplace, you and your workers must verify the valve pressure settings before every use.

Keep Components Dry

Metal components used to construct your air compressor equipment are prone to rust and corrosion from exposure to moisture. Although the tanks sit in a protective case, moisture also accumulates inside the canister. You can help keep the metal parts dry by using the release valve to evacuate air and moisture at the end of each workday.

Tighten down the release valve after the tank stops dripping water to keep moisture in the air from entering the equipment. To verify workers are performing this step at the end of each workday, check the tanks randomly for moisture accumulation.

Wear Protective Gear

Whenever you operate the air compressor equipment, it is important to wear safety goggles, gloves, dust masks and boots. The pressurized air causes debris and contaminants to enter the airspace around you. These small particles could injure your eyes or enter your airways, causing immediate injuries or future health problems. The boots and gloves will help prevent injuries as you move and use the air compressor equipment. Make sure to keep several extra sets of protective gear on the jobsite for workers who forget to bring their equipment or damage their own items in the middle of the workday.

Aim Nozzle Away

Never use the air compressor equipment to blow debris off your uniform or body. If you see anyone attempting to use the air compressor for self-cleaning or pranks, stop them immediately. Though rare, the compressed air can enter through the skin or body cavities and cause a life-threatening embolism. Hold regular training sessions that display the correct way to aim and operate the air compressor nozzles. You can install a cleaning booth equipped with low-pressure blowers to give employees a place to safely clean up before leaving the worksite.

When used correctly, air compressors are an incredibly safe way to power tools. Regular safety training and signage can remind everyone on your worksite about recommended best use practices for air compressors. Regular observance also gives you a chance to spot issues and correct worker before equipment malfunctions or workplace accidents occur. For more tips, visit resources like http://www.compressor-pump.com.


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