Description

A portable air compressor is typically powered by electricity or petrol as the main

power source. It intakes air through an intake port or a filter, which is then forced into a
chamber where it is pressurised. When air is required to be released from the storage
chamber, it is released through a nozzle or an outlet valve to be used for its intended purpose.
This device would commonly be stored/located in a centralised location where it
could be used for its main purposes. It should be noted that a petrol-powered compressor
should be located in an open space with appropriate ventilation in order to dissipate fumes.

An air compressor has the ability for attachments to be used to allow it to serve
different purposes. One of these main attachments that would be used in P&O clinic is an Air
Gun. An air gun allows an air compressor to be used to clean thermoplastic/metal/silicone
shavings that may have been removed from an orthotic device by the use of a benchtop
grinder or an electric grinder in the shape-modification phase of creating a device. This air
compressor is an important piece of equipment and is used in conjunction with other
equipment in the clinic.

Assessment of risk

When using a portable air compressor, there are several risks that may be associated
with the use and the presence of this machine. When using the machine in conjunction with a
‘nozzle’ or ‘air gun’ attachment, this creates a large amount of localised pressurised air that
can be harmful if not handled with care. An Air Compressor can create pressure that can
cause great harm if air is released from the chamber, and is directed at someone's eye, bare
skin, or mouth at close ranges. If it is pointed at an eye, this has the ability to cause serious
damage to eyesight and in the worst-case scenario, can cause blindness. Likewise, this
pointing at skin can cause damage and breakage on the skin which can cause acute harm to
the victim. Finally, if pressurised air is shot into someone's mouth, this can be known to cause
damage to the lungs of those involved, even rupturing lungs in some circumstances.

If equipment has not properly preserved, this can be a hazard in the workshop. If
equipment has previously be mishandled or not properly maintained, then there can be
damage to different components of the compressor. This can include hoses, couplings, or the
compression tank itself. Hoses which are not preserved, inspected or properly maintained,
can lead to air leaks or explosions when air is forced through for general use. This can, in
turn, cause harm to those in close proximity to the device (the user or those close by).
Likewise, if couplings are not checked to be secure then these could create a projectile risk
which could injure those in the workshop or potentially damage other equipment possibly
causing further harm.

The use of an electric powered air compressor could potentially pose a fire risk in a
workshop environment. This could occur if damaged cords, frayed wires, or faulty outputs
are present.

When the air compressor is used for cleaning shavings from orthotic devices, this can
cause particles to be distributed in the air which could cause pose a hazard to those in the
workshop. The concern would be the potential for breathing in metal, thermoplastic or
silicone shavings. This can also be harmful for eyes, in the form of acute pain but also lasting
vision impairment if the pupil is damaged or scratched.

Risk Control

To mitigate the risks of using a portable air compressor, the first step would be regular
servicing and maintenance of the equipment. For a piece of machinery such as this, if the
device is not being used routinely then an annual service would be acceptable. However, if
the device is being used routinely as a part of the workshop, then quarterly services would be
required. In a service, steps that will be taken that directly affect the safety of use include the
tightening of the head of the device as this often requires tensioning. This ensures safe and
efficient operation of the compressor.

General maintenance is also key when operating this device. Draining of the compression
tank is essential so that the condensation doesn’t build up and form rust in the bottom of the
tank. As well as this, maintenance of the hoses and couplings is essential. This can be done by
checking for obvious cracks in the hose or looking for air leaks when operating the
compressor. The use of soapy water and a spray bottle is the best way to detect an air leak. If
a leak is discovered, the damaged part should be replaced or repaired. Timely attention to
maintenance will minimise risk to people and maximise efficiency.

It is important to follow instructions when operating this equipment. In particular, serious

injury may result if an operator does not adhere to the maximum safe operating pressure. If
this pressure is exceeded (which is commonly around 150psi) this can lead to dangers such as
equipment breaking and large amounts of pressurised air escaping, causing damage. In
addition, ensuring that the tank is not pressurised when removing hoses is also key to
ensuring a safe working environment. Hoses that are removed when connected to a
pressurised tank become detached with the full force of the tank and can disconnect thus
causing serious, even life-threatening injuries.

Another way that you can minimise the risks of operating this equipment is by wearing
proper PPE (personal protection equipment). This includes gloves, safety goggles and ear
muffs to protect hands, eyes and hearing.

Finally, the greatest way to minimise risk is the sensible operation of the equipment. This
includes not deliberately putting anyone’s health or safety at risk by aiming the compressed
air in anyone’s direction. Responsible operation will minimise the threat of skin being
pierced, lungs being injured or eyes being affected.