Compressed air is used for respiratory protection in many industries. It is vitally important to ensure that the quality of the compressed air is of a high enough quality to guarantee the health and safety of the person breathing.
The legal requirements to ensure that compressed air breathing air quality meets the required standard is detailed in the British Standard BS EN 12021:2014 ‘Respiratory equipment. Compressed gases for breathing apparatus’.
Regular compressed air breathing air quality testing is essential on any air compressor system to ensure the breathing air compressed air is reaching the required standard for the user. Compressed air testing validates the quality of compressed air for levels of oxygen, oil, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, moisture and odour as poor air quality can cause the folllowing risks:
- Low oxygen levels can cause asphyxiation
- Oil can cause ill health
- High levels of Carbon dioxide can cause intoxication or poisoning
- Carbon monoxide can cause headaches, dizziness and vomiting and higher levels can cause loss of consciousness and death
- Water or moisture can cause internal corrosion, freezing and can damage breathing air apparatus
- Odour can be unpleasant to work and may indicate an underlying problem
Tests should be completed regularly based on a risk assessment but at least once every three months.
Our engineers are fully trained in compressed air quality testing using the latest monitoring devices. Please contact our team if you would like to discuss testing or whether your existing equipment is suitable to supply compressed air for breathing purposes. Our contact details are as follows:
Telephone: 01359 272828
Email david.wood@avelair.co.uk
We look forward to helping you ensure your system is meeting the required standards.
Posted on:
April 22nd 2024