Tools and Equipment
9. Hazards resulting from the use of electric compressors
Most important hazards:
- Explosions due to the lack of strength of the material or to excess pressure.
- Explosions due to the self-igniting of the lubricant oil in the compression or as a result of electrostatic discharge.
- Fires caused by electrical short-circuits, as a result of the excessive temperature of the compressed air or owing to the excessive temperature of the cooling oil.
- Knocking into objects due to the presence of obstacles or inadequate lighting.
- Becoming trapped by moving parts.
- Electrical Contacts.
- Ambient noise and/or vibrations.
Preventive measures:
- The equipment is to be used by qualified personnel.
- Make sure that mandatory periodic checks have been carried out.
- Check that the equipment has pressure limiting devices and safety valves.
- Check that earthing of the metal parts exists associated with current activated circuit-breakers in the supply circuit.
- Check that the equipment has control and regulating devices for the temperature of the air existing the combustion chamber.
- Check that it is equipped with mechanisms for control and regulating the temperature of the cooling oil.
- The equipment is to stop working if the oil pump fails.
- Adequately signpost the location of the equipment and employ appropriate lighting.
- Make sure that live parts are inaccessible.
- Install the equipment in isolated spots, if possible, and secure it properly, respecting the distances to partition walls and pillars.
PPE to use:
- Safety helmet.
- Safety footwear.
- Safety gloves.
- Safety goggles.
- Ear protectors (depending on the duration of the job).
