Compressed Gas Equals a Bomb

Construction work often requires the use of tools powered by compressors. Both pneumatic tools and hydraulic machines use compressors as their source of energy.

By definition, a compressor is a mechanical device that is used to increase the pressure of a gas/liquid by reducing its volume in order to concentrate it under high pressure.

Compressors work in a similar way to pumps as they both increase the pressure on a fluid and both can transport the fluid through a high pressure pipe.

Compressors can also be used to transmit pressure from one point to another through oil fluids in high pressure pipes.

At construction sites, compressors are used to provide power for many of the tools and utilities used by workers, such as jack hammers, pneumatic hammers and some types of rock drills.

Air compressors and gas compressors are the most common type used in construction sites. Their use is accompanied by certain risks to workers. The major risks presented by compressors are:

Explosion of compressed fluids from weak high pressure pipes, which can cause burns, blindness and deafness to those in the vicinity.

Hose whip effect that results when a hose pipe is disconnected while still containing fluid under high pressure. This can hit a worker, damage equipment and even kill.

Fire from ignited fuel tanks that may result from the overheating of the compressor engine.

Debris flying at high speed when the compressor is used in cleaning works can cause grievous injuries.

Emissions of large amounts of dust during cleaning can cause breathing-related complications

The individual power tools each present their own kind of hazards, complicating the control measures that need to be put in place when operating a compressor.

Compressed air is a very dynamic and powerful source of energy. Most site compressors have the capacity to deliver enough pressure to send debris flying at speeds capable of penetrating human skin.

A simple activity such as cleaning oneself using a jet of compressed air can cause permanent injury and death. It is possible for compressed air to burst an eardrum, blow out an eyeball or penetrate the skin, injecting air into the bloodstream. Pointing compressed air at anyone for any reason can be extremely dangerous as the high pressure jet can cause blindness and even burst eardrums when applied directly.

Never adjust blow off or control valves without referring to the operation manuals as improper adjustments can cause air explosions from the safety valve, startling and even injuring experienced operators.

To control the risks associated with the operation of compressors and pneumatic power tools, the following measures should be put in place:

Read the operator's manual and be sure you understand it before using the equipment.

Never allow anyone to ride on top of the compressor machine when towing.

Make sure that all guards and shields are in place and in good working order.

Use the proper respirators for the job as most air tools create a lot of dust during operation.

Only use hose pipes that have been fully rated for the power output of the machine.

Protect the hose at all times as it presents a tripping hazard. It should also be kept out of the way so as not to be accidentally damaged by the tool being used.

Never use a hose that shows signs of damage.

Wear a helmet, hard toed boots, safety goggles and ear muffs during operations.

Wear protective gloves when using a rock drill, a paving breaker and a tamper but do not use gloves when using impact tools such as pneumatic hammers and impact wrenches to avoid the equipment from slipping out of your grip.