If you're going to be taking shop in high school this year, you'll probably be working with air compressors. While air compressors can make quick work of shop projects, it's important to remember that they do need to be handled properly. Failing to take certain safety precautions could expose you, and those around you, to accidental injuries. Before you start using your portable air compressor, here are some safety precautions you should understand and follow.
Always Use Proper Safety Gear
Before you turn your air compressor on for a project, you should always make sure you're wearing the proper safety gear. Flying debris can get into your eyes, dust can get into your lungs, and the noise can harm your ears. To protect those vital areas of your body, you should always wear safety goggles, a face mask, and ear plugs when using an air compressor.
Always Tighten the Hose and Nozzle Before You Begin
Your air compressor comes with a hose and nozzle that are attached to the tank. If the hose and nozzle aren't attached securely enough, they can break free from the tank and cause serious injury to you. Before you turn your air compressor on, make sure you've tightened the hose and nozzle. It's also a good idea to inspect the hose for any signs of damage. If the hose is cracked, don't use it.
Never Aim the Nozzle At Anyone
It might seem like a fun idea, but never aim the nozzle of your air compressor at anyone or anything. The air that comes out of the compressor is highly pressurized. You could cause serious injury if you point that nozzle towards someone. A good rule of thumb is to release the valve whenever someone comes near you. That will reduce your chances of accidentally injuring them with the compressed air. Remember to avoid pointing the nozzle at pets too. You could seriously injure them.
Never Inhale the Compressor Air
While it is air that's coming from the compressor, it's not clean air. In fact, the air that comes from the compressor could contain dirt, dust, and pollutants that can be harmful if inhaled. Because of that, you should never try to inhale the air that comes out of the compressor nozzle. To avoid inhaling the air, make sure you keep your face mask on at all times when using your air compressor.
If you've got a project for shop class coming up that's going to require the use of an air compressor, use the precautions provided here to avoid accidents and injuries. For more information, contact local professionals like those found at Airgen Equipment.
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