Compressed Air Hose Safety: Best Practices & Maintenance

Compressed air powers many tools and machinery used in the workplace, such as nail guns, drills and sanders. The air hose connects the tool to the air compressor. Compressed air hoses can be unsafe without regular maintenance checks and proper use.

Considerations

• Keep air hoses free of oil and grease to prevent deterioration. Do not string hoses across floors as this can cause tripping and falling hazards. Suspend hoses overhead when possible and secure hose ends to prevent whipping from accidental breaks. Avoid kinking or bending air hoses. Before use, check to ensure they are properly connected and use the lowest pressure to do the job.

Significance

• Inspect air hoses regularly for defects and repair or replace immediately. Check hoses for weak spots at bent or kinked areas and at nozzle and shutoff valve attachments. Weakened areas may swell and burst, resulting in a hose explosion. Prohibit sharp objects from coming into contact with a compressed air hose. When not in use, coil the hose and hang it over a wide support. Never hang the hose on a nail or hook.

Warnings

• Never point a compressed air hose at anyone or insert into body openings. Air pressure in excess of 30 lbs. can burst eardrums, blow an eye out of its socket, cause internal hemorrhaging and rupture internal organs.