Understanding Air Tools and Proper Tool Safety
Pneumatic tools, which are powered by compressed air, are widely used in industrial and construction settings and have become popular with do-it-yourselfers as well. Understanding pneumatic tool safety is essential when working with these tools to prevent accidents and ensure safe, proper operation. Common pneumatic tools include die grinders, drills, chipping hammers, sanders, and impact wrenches, among others. While they require specific handling, pneumatic tools can save significant time and effort and are generally easy to use. They are also often more affordable and lighter in weight than their electric counterparts.
Safety hazards of pneumatic tools
There are several potential dangers associated with the use of pneumatic tools. The main hazard is being struck by one of the tool’s attachments (e.g., a drill bit) or by the fastener the tool is discharging (e.g., staples). Pneumatic tools that discharge nails, rivets, or staples and operate at pressures more than 100 pounds per square inch should be equipped with a special device to keep fasteners from being ejected unless the muzzle is pressed against the work surface.Not all pneumatic tools need to be intrinsically safe. Intrinsic safety is a specific requirement in workplaces where there is a risk of explosion from gases, vapours, mists, or dust. Examples include chemical refineries, offshore platforms, flour mills, and paint shops. In hazardous environments like these, pneumatic power tools can act as ignition sources. In order to prioritize operator safety in hazardous environments, it is essential to choose pneumatic tools that have been specifically designed and certified for intrinsic safety. Essentially, this means the tool has been designed to limit the energy – electrical and thermal – available for ignition.
When working with pneumatic tools, safety should always be the top priority. Here are tips to reduce the risk of accidents and ensure the safety of pneumatic tool operators:
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Always wear safety glasses, goggles, or a face shield. Hearing protection is crucial due to high noise levels. Use gloves to reduce vibration and protect hands.
Basic pneumatic tool safety tips
- Use the right tool for the job and review the manufacturer’s instructions before using any tool.
- Check that the pneumatic tools have appropriate safety features.
- Do not operate the tool at a pressure above the manufacturer’s rating.
- Regular servicing is vital to ensuring equipment safety, as a well-maintained tool is less likely to fail.
- Set up screens or shields in areas where nearby workers may be exposed to flying fragments, chips, dust, and excessive noise.
- Ensure that the compressed air supplied to the tool is clean and dry. Dust, moisture, and corrosive fumes can damage a tool. An inline filter, regulator, and lubricator may increase the tool’s life.
- Keep tools clean, lubricated, and maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Disconnect tools when not in use, before servicing, when clearing a jammed fastener, and when changing accessories such as bits and cutters.
- Use only the manufacturer-recommended attachments for the tools you are using.
- Attachments, such as chisels on a chipping hammer, should be secured with a safety clip or retainer to prevent unintentional ejection during tool operation.
- Make sure the tool is securely fastened to the hose. A short wire or a positive locking device that attaches the air hose to the tool serves as an added safeguard.
- Reduce physical fatigue by using counterbalanced tools whenever possible.
Air hose safety tips
- If an air hose is more than 1/2 inch in diameter, a safety excess flow valve should be installed at the air supply to automatically shut off the air in case of hose failure.
- Choose air hoses that have a minimum working pressure rating of 1035 kPa (150 psig) or 150% of the maximum pressure produced in the system, whichever is higher.
- Use hoses specifically designed to resist abrasion, cutting, crushing, and flexing.
- Keep hoses away from heat, oil, sharp edges, and potential physical damage.
- Check hoses regularly for cuts, bulges, and abrasions. Tag and replace if defective.
- Blow out the air line before connecting a tool. Hold the hose firmly and blow away from yourself and others. This will help ensure there is no debris or water inside the hose.
- Use quick-disconnect safety couplings that bleed off downstream air pressure before disconnecting. Install the male end of the coupling on the tool.
- Turn off the air pressure to the hose when not in use or when changing power tools.
- Do not carry a pneumatic tool by its hose.
- Avoid creating trip hazards by laying hoses across walkways or curling them underfoot.
Unsafe use of compressed air
- Cleaning with compressed air is dangerous. Do not use compressed air to clean equipment or clothing; use vacuums, dusters, or brooms instead.
- If no alternate cleaning method is available and compressed air must be used, the nozzle pressure should remain below 207 kPa (30 psi). In addition, personal protective equipment and effective chip-guarding techniques should be used.
- Compressed air guns should never be pointed toward anyone.
- Users should never “dead-end” compressed air guns against themselves or anyone else.