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Desmond
08-13-2014, 02:37 PM
Hello all. I was wondering if any one could help me with writing an Standard Operating Procedure for compressed air. I have noticed in some articles that normal safety glasses are not enough to protect from compressed air. That goggles must be used. These articles I have noticed are not Australian. So my question is does this apply to us? I have never heard of this before.

Thank you

Des

NATIONAL WHS
08-13-2014, 09:41 PM
Hello all. I was wondering if any one could help me with writing an Standard Operating Procedure for compressed air. I have noticed in some articles that normal safety glasses are not enough to protect from compressed air. That goggles must be used. These articles I have noticed are not Australian. So my question is does this apply to us? I have never heard of this before.

Thank you

Des

Hi Des

There is an Australian standard that covers this area in part . I researched this area in regards to grinding.It was a while ago and cant remember the standard number sorry.

But it did state that if something spins over a certain rpm then approved safety eye wear and a high impact face shield should be used . Being that sparks or particles in the eye would seem minor compared to a disc or any spinning bit or tool were to fly off at high speed. GOOGLE image search of grinder accidents will shock anyone who uses these types of tools. Most importantly severing a main artery in the neck can result in instant death.
I still see it written sometimes GOGGLES but theY only protect the eyes .

I personally recommend clear approved safety glasses and full face shield for inside work and possibly smoked safety glasses and full face shield for outside work.

We need to remember that even if your not using air spinning tools the high pressure air can move items and bounce them back at you at still high speeds.

Not forgetting the Australian Standards can be used in court of law.

Hope this helps you out

kind regards Dean T

Desmond
08-14-2014, 12:25 PM
Thank you Dean T for your reply. Yes this does help for our maintenance crew. We also use compressed air guns to clean and dry some parts. I am wondering if there is a limit to the force that one of these guns operate at. I will have to look at Australian standards to see if there is something.

Des