[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]When production and factory personnel are at work, it can often be tempting for them to find the easiest, or in their opinion, the fastest way of doing certain things. This is all well and good, but shortcuts can lead to individuals and companies running into major problems, and even falling foul of regulations that may be in place.<\/p>\n
One example of how OSHA regulations <\/span>can be severely compromised is demonstrated when workers may choose to use a compressed air gun\/nozzle to remove dust and debris from clothing and\/or exposed skin. To acquire further understandings of what is safe and approved for clean down operations, Nick Wakley, ACI\u2019s\u00a0<\/span>Health & Safety Officer <\/span>answers some commonly asked questions. Q. What is your interpretation of the OSHA regulation regarding the use of compressed air for cleaning purposes?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n NW:<\/strong> The main points to take from the OSHA regulation (29 CFR1910.242(b)) are as follows:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.aircontrolindustries.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/JetBlack-Safety-Walk-Through-Booth.jpg” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Q: Where are the OSHA regulations applied and are there any other regulations that apply to\u00a0this issue?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n NW:<\/strong> The US only is officially regulated by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), although from my experience more and more companies outside of the US are using OSHA for their own guidelines. SUVA is a Swiss body which has issued similar recommendations and rules.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.aircontrolindustries.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/oshalogo.png” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Q: If there was one message or action you would take from the OSHA regulations for compressed air, what would it be?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n NWA:<\/strong> Although it states you should reduce the pressure of your compressed air lines to less than 30PSI, there is plenty of proof that even running lines at less than 5-10PSI can still cause injury if used on exposed skin. For my own point of view, I prefer to be completely sure everyone is safe and follow the simple rule that under no circumstances should employees use compressed air for clean off clothing or skin.\u00a0<\/span>If your employees need to clean themselves down, find a safer alternative solution.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.aircontrolindustries.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/bigstock-Cropped-image-senior-man-holdi-69748294.jpeg” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Q: What exactly are the hazards of using compressed air?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n NWA:<\/strong> Compressed air is not just ordinary air and it needs to be respected. Compressed air is a concentrated stream of air at high pressure and high velocity that can cause serious injury to the operator and even the people around him\/her. Playing with compressed air can be fatal:<\/p>\n Q: If cleaning down with compressed air guns & nozzles going to continue, what safe measures can be taken?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n NWA:<\/strong> Firstly, if you are going to allow compressed air to be used for cleaning processed, some measures that might be taken, include:<\/p>\n Q: If you are looking to remove the use of compressed air guns & nozzles in your workplace for cleaning purposes, are there any safer alternative?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n NWA:<\/strong> <\/span>Vacuums cleaners are a viable alternative for self-cleaning, however, they can be rather clumsy and the process of removing dust from clothing can be time consuming. This is clearly demonstrated in the following video:<\/p>\n https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=wzLtjFMNrPc<\/p>\n <\/p>\n If the remove<\/span>d dust particles do need to be extracted, JetBlack Safety offer the Personnel Cleaning Booth which is a self-contained, free-standing dedusting system. This is a highly effective unit for removing, extracting and collecting dust and debris from employee\u2019s dirty work clothes.<\/p>\n The Cleaning Booth delivers a high volumes of filtered air at low pressure, sufficient to remove powders and dust more effectively. These are then drawn down and away from occupants through a grille floor by a vacuum effect created by an external blower.<\/p>\n Another option that eliminates all risks and facilitates de-dusting and cleaning of personnel is called the \u2018JetBlack\u2019. This is a blower powered (1400 watts) solution that removes dust and debris from clothing or skin using high volumes of air at low pressure. It operates at less than 2.53PSI (70In.SWG) and can be directed safely at exposed skin with no risk of harm at all. Its\u2019s quite safe for all personnel cleaning requirements.<\/p>\n The unit also offers users the advantage of being much quieter with noise output being less than 78dB(A). This is significantly quieter than compressed air and well below the level of 85dB(A) level that can lead to hearing loss.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Q: Is ACI\u2019s JetBlack OSHA compliant?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n NWA:<\/strong> There are two versions of the JetBlack Safety Cleaning Station. One is a wall mounted unit intended for fixed cleaning stations to be used by personnel, and the other is a portable unit ideal for cleaning and removal of debris\/dust from machinery or workspaces. Both are OSHA compliant as they are fitted with a chip guard, and operate at a low pressure.<\/p>\n Q: What happens when the dust is removed using a JetBlack?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n NWA:\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>Any dust or contaminant removed\/blown off from clothing using a JetBlack will be airborne; it is therefore vital that PPE be worn at all time. The Cleaning Station was designed as a replacement to compressed air nozzles and guns for removing dust from personnel quickly and effectively.<\/p>\n If the removed dust particles do need to be extracted, JetBlack Safety offer the Personnel Cleaning Booth which is a self-contained, free-standing dedusting system. This is a highly effective unit for removing, extracting and collecting dust and debris from employee\u2019s dirty work clothes.<\/p>\n The Cleaning Booth delivers a high volumes of filtered air at low pressure, sufficient to remove powders and dust more effectively. These are then drawn down and away from occupants through a grille floor by a vacuum effect created by an external blower.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.aircontrolindustries.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Wall-Mounted-Cleaning-3.jpg” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" When production and factory personnel are at work, it can often be tempting for them to find the easiest, or in their opinion, the fastest way of doing certain things. This is all well and good, but shortcuts can lead to individuals and companies running into major problems, and even falling foul of regulations that may be in place….<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":49645,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":" [et_pb_section bb_built=\"1\"][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=\"1_2\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"3.13\"]<\/p> When production and factory personnel are at work, it can often be tempting for them to find the easiest, or in their opinion, the fastest way of doing certain things. This is all well and good, but shortcuts can lead to individuals and companies running into major problems, and even falling foul of regulations that may be in place.<\/p> One example of how OSHA regulations <\/span>can be severely compromised is demonstrated when workers may choose to use a compressed air gun\/nozzle to remove dust and debris from clothing and\/or exposed skin.<\/p> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_2\"][et_pb_image _builder_version=\"3.13\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aircontrolindustries.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/assemblyarea.jpg\" \/][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"3.13\"]<\/p> Compressed air tools are of course commonplace on factory floors, and to workers a compressed air gun may be the quickest and most convenient method of cleaning themselves down. However, the reality is that he\/she may be creating a noncompliance, but more significantly, a potentially dangerous situation.<\/p> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=\"1_2\"][et_pb_image _builder_version=\"3.13\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aircontrolindustries.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/dangers-of-compressed-air.jpeg\" \/][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_2\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"3.13\"]<\/p> Many companies will have written safe work procedures that outline how to perform a task with minimum risk to people, equipment, materials, environment and processes. Because of this most employees are well-aware that using compressed air nozzles to remove debris from clothes is a hazardous habit. However, despite this lots of workplace injuries still happen because of the misuse horseplay, and no matter how innocently it might start, it can end with disastrous consequences. It may be amusing to direct a jet of air at a co-worker, but these tools produce enough pressure to cause a severe internal injury such as embolisms which can be fatal.<\/p> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"3.13\"]<\/p> If employers are going to allow their workforce to use compressed air in the workplace, it is vital that they understand the appropriate regulations and to be aware of alternative technologies that can further reduce or eliminate the dangers.<\/p> To acquire further understandings of what is safe and approved for clean down operations, Nick Wakley, ACI\u2019s\u00a0<\/span>Health & Safety Officer <\/span>answers some commonly asked questions.<\/p> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=\"1_2\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"3.13\"]<\/p> Q. What is your interpretation of the OSHA regulation regarding the use of compressed air for cleaning purposes?<\/strong><\/span><\/p> NW:<\/strong> The main points to take from the OSHA regulation (29 CFR1910.242(b)) are as follows:<\/p> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_2\"][et_pb_image _builder_version=\"3.13\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aircontrolindustries.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/Nick-Wakley.jpeg\" \/][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"3.13\"]<\/p> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"3.13\"]<\/p> NW:<\/strong> The US only is officially regulated by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), although from my experience more and more companies outside of the US are using OSHA for their own guidelines. SUVA is a Swiss body which has issued similar recommendations and rules.<\/p> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\"][et_pb_image _builder_version=\"3.13\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aircontrolindustries.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/oshalogo.png\" \/][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=\"1_2\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"3.13\"]<\/p> NWA:<\/strong> Although it states you should reduce the pressure of your compressed air lines to less than 30PSI, there is plenty of proof that even running lines at less than 5-10PSI can still cause injury if used on exposed skin. For my own point of view, I prefer to be completely sure everyone is safe and follow the simple rule that under no circumstances should employees use compressed air for clean off clothing or skin.\u00a0<\/span>If your employees need to clean themselves down, find a safer alternative solution.<\/p> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_2\"][et_pb_image _builder_version=\"3.13\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aircontrolindustries.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/bigstock-Cropped-image-senior-man-holdi-69748294.jpeg\" \/][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"3.13\"]<\/p> NWA:<\/strong> Compressed air is not just ordinary air and it needs to be respected. Compressed air is a concentrated stream of air at high pressure and high velocity that can cause serious injury to the operator and even the people around him\/her. Playing with compressed air can be fatal:<\/p> NWA:<\/strong> Firstly, if you are going to allow compressed air to be used for cleaning processed, some measures that might be taken, include:<\/p> \u00a0<\/p> NWA:<\/strong> <\/span>Vacuums cleaners are a viable alternative for self-cleaning, however, they can be rather clumsy and the process of removing dust from clothing can be time consuming. This is clearly demonstrated in the following video:<\/p>
\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.aircontrolindustries.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/assemblyarea.jpg” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]Compressed air tools are of course commonplace on factory floors, and to workers a compressed air gun may be the quickest and most convenient method of cleaning themselves down. However, the reality is that he\/she may be creating a noncompliance, but more significantly, a potentially dangerous situation.
\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.aircontrolindustries.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/05\/dangers-of-compressed-air.jpeg” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]Many companies will have written safe work procedures that outline how to perform a task with minimum risk to people, equipment, materials, environment and processes. Because of this most employees are well-aware that using compressed air nozzles to remove debris from clothes is a hazardous habit. However, despite this lots of workplace injuries still happen because of the misuse horseplay, and no matter how innocently it might start, it can end with disastrous consequences. It may be amusing to direct a jet of air at a co-worker, but these tools produce enough pressure to cause a severe internal injury such as embolisms which can be fatal.
\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]If employers are going to allow their workforce to use compressed air in the workplace, it is vital that they understand the appropriate regulations and to be aware of alternative technologies that can further reduce or eliminate the dangers.<\/p>\n
\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n\n
Factory air lines normally operate between 80 psi and 120 psi. Most pneumatic tools, including air guns, need high pressures to operate effectively. OSHA requires that when an air gun is dead ended (the tip of an air gun is blocked), the static pressure at the point of blockage is no more than 30 psi.<\/li>\n
Whenever blowing off debris with a compressed air gun\/nozzle, under certain conditions workers can be subjected to chip fly-back. This term refers to the tendency of loose particles or chips to fly back into the operator\u2019s face, eyes or skin. For an operation that requires this type of close-in work, OSHA requires that effective chip guarding be incorporated into the workplace.<\/li>\n
Excessive noise generated in the workplace can be harmful and compressed air gun\/nozzles can contribute to high levels of occupational noise. Every precaution should be taken to reduce this.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
\n
Factory air lines normally operate between 80 psi and 120 psi. Most pneumatic tools, including air guns, need high pressures to operate effectively. OSHA requires that when an air gun is dead ended (the tip of an air gun is blocked), the static pressure at the point of blockage is no more than 30 psi.<\/li><\/ul>
<\/strong>Whenever blowing off debris with a compressed air gun\/nozzle, under certain conditions workers can be subjected to chip fly-back. This term refers to the tendency of loose particles or chips to fly back into the operator\u2019s face, eyes or skin. For an operation that requires this type of close-in work, OSHA requires that effective chip guarding be incorporated into the workplace.<\/li>
Excessive noise generated in the workplace can be harmful and compressed air gun\/nozzles can contribute to high levels of occupational noise. Every precaution should be taken to reduce this.<\/li><\/ul>Q: Where are the OSHA regulations applied and are there any other regulations that apply to\u00a0this issue?<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>
Q: If there was one message or action you would take from the OSHA regulations for compressed air, what would it be?<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>
Q: What exactly are the hazards of using compressed air?<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>
Q: If cleaning down with compressed air guns & nozzles going to continue, what safe measures can be taken?<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>
Q: If you are looking to remove the use of compressed air guns & nozzles in your workplace for cleaning purposes, are there any safe alternatives?<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>