Points to be aware of when using Compressed Air

Compressed air has numerous applications, one of them being its use in cleaning. A common question regarding it is whether it should be used to blow off work surfaces or clothes. The answer is no, as it can be hazardous, and most people are not aware of this. This habit is widely practiced due to the easy availability of compressed air. However, using it to clean machinery, objects, bench tops, clothes and other things is quite dangerous. The particles made airborne and the air jet can cause serious injuries to anyone near the jet.  For one, compressed air has a lot of force and has the ability to dislodge particles, depending on the pressure. These particles are a peril since they can abrade the skin or enter the eyes. The resulting damage would be dependent on the weight, size, composition, shape and the speed of the particles.

Reports have been made of hearing damage caused by the pressure and sound of this type of air. Air that is under compression can itself also be a significant hazard. Some of the air can enter the blood stream through a body opening or a cut in the skin, although on very rare occasions. An air bubble within the blood stream has a medical term referred to as embolism.

Compressed Air

As much as such a condition is mainly caused by wrong diving procedures, high pressures associated with air can also cause it. This may sound improbable and unlikely to happen, but the consequences of a tiny amount of air in the blood stream can be far-reaching and fatal. Furthermore, the use of air in cleaning forces dust particles and dirt into the air, making them airborne and polluting the environment, in the process creating a respiratory hazard.  Playing with air under compression has resulted in some serious accidents both at home and in the workplace. Such accidents are usually caused by individuals who are oblivious of the dangers posed by air in such a state, or those unaware of the proper work procedures. Instead of using compressed air for cleaning, it is advisable use sweeping compounds or techniques.

Alternatively, you can also use vacuum cleaners that have special filters capable of preventing the recirculation of dust back into the air.  Sometimes, it is allowed for compressed air to be used in cleaning. However, for it to take place safely, a nozzle producing less noise emission should be used. Equipment for personal protection should be worn at all times to protect the body of the worker against dust and particles under pressure. Special protection should be given to the eyes since they are the most vulnerable. Additionally, the nozzle should be directed to areas without much dust and other solid particles.