An air compressor is an interesting device that converts power into potential energy stored in pressurized air. This power being converted can be obtained by an electric motor, diesel or gasoline engine, etc. An air compressor, similar to its name, compresses air and forces more and more air into the storage tank which increases the pressure in the result.
An air compressor is a highly useful and widely used machine. One of the main uses of an air compressor is being used for filling gas tanks and tires with air.
Safety is the most important factor and the primary concern while working with such equipment. Safety measures not only save you from accidents and injuries but also increase the life of equipment and machinery and protects them from being damaged.
Here are the most common and effective safety tips while using an air compressor.
- Use air compressors outside
Air compressors should only be used outdoors unless your air compressor is electric. In that case, the air compressor for home garage can be very dangerous if they are used indoors. This is because they release harmful toxic gases such as carbon monoxide which can deteriorate health prominently.
- Wear safety glasses and masks
One major safety tip that many users ignore is wearing protective eyeglasses and masks. There have been many incidents recorded of people being seriously injured in the eyes because of the pressurized air the compressor contains.
It is highly advised to wear safety eye goggles and masks to prevent from such incidents.
- Regularly check for oil and air leaks
An air compressor can be extremely dangerous if it has an air or oil leak. This is because it contains highly compressed air and even a small air leak can result in a fatal incident. A good habit would be checking for air and oil leaks every time before using the air compressor. If you find a leak, no matter how small, do not use it until it is fixed and checked by a professional because a small leak can trigger close by substances and even cause them to blow up by the compressed air.
- Follow and read the manufacturer’s guide
Although this sounds very basic but reading the user manual can help you learn a lot about the air compressor.
The manual will show you the right way of using the compressor and maintaining it the right way. Make sure you read it thoroughly for a better understanding.
- Avoid using it in wet areas
Air compressor should be avoided to use in wet areas, and the primary reason for this is because moisture can cause the machinery to rust and damage the outside.
This might look like an ignorable issue, but rusts can lead to a leak which is not ignorable. Avoiding the use in wet conditions is a tip for increasing the longevity of the machine as well.
- Use an approved nozzle
You should only be using an approved nozzle, preferably by OSHA. If the nozzle that you are using is bad or slightly loose, it may release extra gas and air, both of which are at high pressures. This increases the risk of bodily injuries and other safety measures as well.
- Use a self-retracting cord
The only reason for using a self-retracting cord and putting it in the list of safety measures is because cords that are lying around can be dangerous as anyone can trip over them or pull them.
You can hurt yourself by tripping and even cause damage to the machine if the cord is pulled out of it. A self-retracting cord would minimize such issues, and excess of cords lying around would be reduced.
