Compressed air is delivered at high pressure. If it enters the body it can rupture internal organs, causing agonising injury or death.
Horseplay with compressed air is expressly forbidden.
Do not use compressed air for any purpose other than that for which it is intended.
Never direct compressed air at yourself to blow dust off clothing or hair - serious injury could result.
Do not clean machines or benches with compressed air - use a brush or vacuum cleaner.
Compressors
Guards must be maintained in position whenever the compressor is running.
The oil feed to the airline must be regularly topped up.
A compressor must not be operated in a confined space - adequate ventilation must always be provided.
The air receiver must be clearly marked with the safe working pressure, which should not be exceeded.
Hoses
Hoses and couplings must be inspected regularly to ensure they are in good condition with anti-whip restraints.
Hoses must be the correct size for the tool, with lengths as short as possible.
Hoses must be kept clear of corrosive liquids and materials.
To be positioned so as to avoid damage by passing traffic.
Ensure that hoses do not create tripping hazards.
Ensure that connectors are fully home and safely latched.
Always close a hose by the valve - never kink the hose.
Tools
Make sure that your compressed air tool, hose and fittings are working properly.
When connecting a tool to the air line, keep a firm hold on the tool in case it whips.
Before changing tools make sure that the airline is closed or has an automatic shut-off valve.
Ensure that, where applicable, the proper protective guard is fitted before use.
Always use attachments which are correct for the speed of the tool.
Always check hose connections before starting work.
When using jack-hammers always stand with feet apart well away from the point.
Operations of cutting, drilling or impact breaking tools must wear eye and hearing protection.
Before disconnecting the tool, turn off the compressed air supply on the main air pipe to which your hose is connected. The air should be exhausted in the line at the tool end.
The tool control lever must be released before moving the tool to another piece of work.
The changing of points on a jackhammer must be undertaken with the tool in a horizontal position.
Do not use blunt points.
Ensure that points are securely seated before use.
In the case of abrasive wheels, cutting wheels and discs, in accordance with the Abrasive Wheels Regulations, only operatives in possession of a certificate of training are permitted to change wheels or discs.
Keep away all persons not directly involved in the activity.
Cylinders
Treat every cylinder as ‘full’ and handle carefully - never roll a cylinder along the ground.
Always use a carrier or a trolley and secure the cylinder into it.
Store all cylinders so that they cannot fall or roll.
Keep them away from artificial heat, flammable materials and corrosive chemicals.
Avoid damage to valves and fittings - do not use them for lifting or carrying.
Keep valves and fittings of oxygen cylinders free from oil and grease.
Do not use cylinders as rollers to move equipment.
Open cylinder valves slowly, and close sufficiently to shut off gas - never use force.
Always lift cylinders from vehicles - never drop them.
Keep hose lines clear of traffic.
Keep spare cylinders at the designated store - not at the workplace.
Return empty cylinders to the designated store - do not leave them lying around.
In case of a fire involving cylinders, full or empty, clear the area and inform the fire brigade.
Report any defect in the equipment or the system of work without delay.
Compressed Oxygen
Oxygen is not a flammable gas, but it will enrich the air when released into it and cause combustible materials to burn fiercely.
Oxygen can cause oil or grease to ignite spontaneously, so these must not be used on threads or couplings on cylinders.
Do not handle cylinders, valves or fittings with greasy hands, gloves or rags.
Close down equipment when not in use to prevent tubes and regulators being under unnecessary pressure.
Do not store cylinders of oxygen and combustible gases together.
Cylinder valves and outlets must not be damaged.
Do not use cylinders as rollers for moving equipment.
Oxygen must not be used to:
ventilate confined spaces;
cool yourself down when hot;
clear flammable or other vapours from contaminated areas;
remove dust from clothing;
drive compressed air tools.
Report any defect in the equipment or the system of work without delay.
