Compressed Air HSE

Health and Safety
Executive
Compressed air safety
This is a free-to-download, web-friendly version of HSG39

(Second edition, published 1998). This version has been adapted for online
use from HSEs current printed version.
ISBN 978 0 7176 1531 5

Price 7.50
This book aims to promote the safe use of compressed air and describes the many
ways in which compressed air can be dangerous as well as how to minimise the
risk of such dangers occurring.
It is aimed at designers, manufacturers, installers, users and others concerned with
or responsible for health and safety at work.
HSE Books
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Crown copyright 1998

First published 1990
ISBN 978 0 7176 1531 5
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in
a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means (electronic,
mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without the prior written
permission of the copyright owner.
Applications for reproduction should be made in writing to:
The Office of Public Sector Information, Information Policy Team,
Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 4DU or e-mail: licensing@opsi.gov.uk
This guidance is issued by the Health and Safety Executive. Following the guidance
is not compulsory and you are free to take other action. But if you do follow the
guidance you will normally be doing enough to comply with the law. Health and
safety inspectors seek to secure compliance with the law and may refer to this
guidance as illustrating good practice.
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Contents
INTRODUCTION 5
COMPRESSOR PLANT 6
Groups of compressors 6
Hazards 6
General information and advice 6
Precautions 7
Safety valves 7
Pressure indication 7
Thermal protection 7

Coolant protection 8

Lubricant protection 8

Explosion protection 8
Air inlet/outlet monitoring 8

Other instrumentation 8
Air inlet/outlet control 9
AIR RECEIVERS 11
Statutory requirements 11
Hazards 12
Precautions 12
COOLERS 13
Hazards 13
Precautions 13
AIR DRYERS 14
Hazards 14
Refrigerant 14
Dessicant 14
Precautions 14
INSTALLATION OF COMPRESSORS 16
Precautions 16
Small compressors 16
Medium and large compressors 16
Noise 16
MAIN LINE SYSTEMS 18
Hazards 18
Precautions 18
Pipe-runs 18
Filters, traps, separators and lubricators 21
Pressure regulators 22
PORTABLE PNEUMATIC EQUIPMENT 23
Hazards 23
Precautions 24
Flexible hoses 24
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Blow guns 24
Portable tools 25
PNEUMATIC POWERED MACHINERY 26
Hazards 26
Precautions 26
ACTUATORS 28
Hazards 28
Precautions 28
INTERLOCKING METHODS AND CIRCUIT DESIGN 31
Interlocking systems 31
Single control system interlocking 31
Dual control system interlocking 32
Power interlocking 40
Circuit design 41
Piston arrest 41
Piston arrest and hold 41
Overriding locked position 41
Predetermined position 41
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE 42
Hazards 42
Maintenance of compressors and ancillary plant 42
Supervision and procedures 42
Daily 43
Checks mainly directed to reciprocating compressors 43
Weekly 43
600 hours 43
Six-monthly 43
2000 hrs or annually 44
Precautions 44
Maintenance of air powered equipment 44
Supervision and procedures 44
Daily 44
Weekly 45
Monthly 45
Three monthly 45
Six monthly 45
Precautions 45
TRAINING 46
Hazards 46
Precautions 46
Further information 46
British standards 47
Health & Safety Executive publications 48
Legal requirements 49
FURTHER INFORMATION 50
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Introduction
1
This guidance booklet aims to promote the safe use of compressed air
by giving advice to designers, manufacturers, installers, users and others
concerned with or responsible for health and safety at work. It was originally
produced in 1990 during a rapidly changing situation in Europe arising from
the preparation for the single market and was further revised under the
Review of Regulations and Guidance undertaken by the Health and Safety
Executive (HSE) in 1996.
There are many ways in which compressed air can be dangerous, for
example:
(a) it can enter body orifices such as the mouth, ears and anus, causing

severe and often fatal injuries;
(b) at high pressure it can penetrate the skin;
(c) particles or oil carried in an air jet can damage the eyes;
(d) oil-coke deposits in a system can spontaneously ignite and cause an

explosion;
(e) vessels containing compressed air, even at comparatively low pressure,

can explode violently once their integrity is lost; and
(f) dirty or wet air can lead to corrosion and blocked valves which may
make the system unsafe.
This booklet explains how to minimise the likelihood of such problems,

but it does not give specific advice on air separation plant, the pneumatic
transportation of materials through pipelines or the supply of respirable air.
Reference in this guidance booklet to a particular standard does not preclude
using an equally effective alternative standard.
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Compressor plant

Groups of compressors
For the purposes of this booklet compressors are divided into three groups:
small, medium and large.
A small compressor delivers up to 40 litres per second of free air and/or has
a power input of no more than 15 kW. Such compressors may be mobile or
fixed and may be supplied as packaged units. A typical one would comprise
a reciprocating compressor driven by an electric motor on top of or alongside
an air receiver.
A medium compressor delivers between 40 and 300 litres per second of free
air and/or has a power input of between 15 and 100 kW.
A large compressor delivers more than 300 litres per second of free air and/
or has a power input of more than 100 kW.
Many medium and large compressors are supplied as packaged units. A

typical one would comprise a compressor, air intake filter, motor and air
cooler, all on a common bed frame with factory-connected piping and
factory-installed electrical controls and wiring. It could be enclosed in a sheet
metal housing treated with soundproofing material to reduce noise levels.
Using a packaged unit has a number of advantages; it simplifies foundation

work, reduces installation time and provides a properly engineered and
adequately guarded assembly of components in a compact space. However,
the user is still responsible for siting the system so that incoming air is as dry
and free from contaminants as site conditions allow. Both the air entering the
compressor plant and the delivered air must be as dry, clean and cool as
possible. Advice on siting is given in paragraphs 60 to 67.
Hazards
10 The major hazard associated with compressors is overpressurisation, which

may arise from:

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)

a blocked outlet or some other restriction to flow;

failure of automatic controls combined with low air consumption;
compressor malfunction, eg overspeeding;
an external fire near the pressure system; and
overheating and the build-up of carbonaceous deposits, both of which
can lead to fires or explosions. Although they are rare, fires and
explosions can also occur as a result of oil or oil vapour being ignited in
the pressure system.
11 Dirty or wet air can cause a system to fail eg by causing fine particles of
debris to agglomerate, blocking safety related valves.

General information and advice
12
Standards for the safe design, construction, installation and operation of

many types of stationary compressor are set out in BS 6244 Code of practice
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for stationary air compressors. It specifies requirements to help minimise

compressor accidents and defines general safety practices. BS EN 1012
Parts 1 & 2 cover Compressors and vacuum pump safety requirements.
NOTE: It is important that records are amended following
modifications to plant and pipework.
Precautions
13
Transmission machinery eg V belts, pulleys and other dangerous parts,

should be guarded to prevent access, see BS 5304 Code of Practice for
Safety of machinery.

14
Safety valves
On all medium or large multi-stage positive displacement compressors a
safety valve should be fitted between each stage and, where appropriate, in
the inter or after cooler circuit.
15
Where an isolating valve is installed in the discharge pipework between the

compressor and receiver, the pipework on the compressor side of the valve
should be protected by a suitable safety valve that complies with BS 6759,
Part 2 Specification for safety valves for compressed air or inert gases and
is installed to BS 6244, clause 21, unless the system has been designed
to withstand the maximum pressure that can be generated. (This valve is in
addition to the air receiver safety valve.) On small fixed and small and medium
transportable compressor units, where the outlet of the compressor is directly
connected without shut-off or non-return valves to an air receiver to which no
other source of pressure is attached, one safety valve on the air receiver is
sufficient.

16
Pressure indication
An accurately calibrated air pressure gauge with a readily visible appropriate
scale-reading should be provided after each stage of compression. However,
on small two-stage compressors this is not required after the first stage
of compression, but a suitable tapping to enable a test device to be fitted
should be provided. Gauges should be constructed to comply with BS EN
837-1 Part 1- Bourdon tube pressure gauges- Dimensions, metrology,
requirements and testing and installed to comply with BS EN 837-1 Part 2
Selection and installation recommendations for pressure gauges.
17 On medium and large reciprocating compressors with forced feed lubrication

systems it is important that a gauge is provided in the appropriate position to
indicate oil pressure.

18
Thermal protection
To minimise the risk of overheating, large compressors should be provided
with a suitable thermal protective device as near as practicable to the last
stage discharge valve or, where there is more than one valve, at a common
point of discharge which would automatically shut down the compressor
when a predetermined temperature is exceeded. Note - where automatic
compressor shut-down may adversely affect the safety of pressuredependent systems, additional high temperature warning devices
may be required so that action can be taken prior to automatic
shut-down.
19
On large two-stage compressors a thermal protective device should also

be provided as near as possible to the first-stage discharge valve. Large
compressors with three or more stages would require a separate device for
each stage.
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20
For medium and large air-cooled compressors protective devices should be

provided to monitor general compressor overheating which may be caused
by cooling-fan failure or the fouling of cooling surfaces.
21
Oil-flooded rotary compressors should have an automatic shut-down device

to prevent the temperature of the compressed air from exceeding a safe limit.

22
Coolant protection
If the compressor is water cooled, a thermostat should be provided to the
cooling water outlet or water return to the radiator header tank to shut down
the compressor when the water temperature exceeds the manufacturers
recommended maximum. Where the thermostat device does not give no
water or no flow protection, a water flow detection device should also be
provided. Sufficient good quality cooling water is required to cool all parts
of the system and inhibit blockages and corrosion. The supply may require
protection against freezing in low temperatures.

Lubricant protection
23 On medium and large compressors a pressure-sensing device should be
provided to shut down the compressor and activate visible and audible
alarms if the lubricating oil pressure drops below the manufacturers
recommended minimum. Gravity-feed lubrication systems should be fitted
with a level sensing device. A thermal sensing device should be fitted to set
off an alarm and shut down the compressor if the oil in the crank case, sump
or scavenge systems exceeds the temperature specified by the lubricant
manufacturer. There can be safety advantages to using synthetic ester-based
oils for lubricating compressors.

24
Explosion protection
If components run hot, or oil coke deposits spontaneously ignite, there may
be an explosion. BS 6244 describes the chemistry of such conditions and
explains how oil coke deposits can be prevented. To reduce the explosion
risk on medium and large compressors, a fusible plug can be fitted on the
underside of the pipe between the compressor and the receiver as close as is
practicable to the compressor. When ordering such a plug, users will need to
provide the following information for the manufacturer:
(a)
(b)

(c)
(d)
maximum design working pressure;

maker and grade, or closed flashpoint of the oil used for cylinder
lubrication;
maximum design outlet temperature of air; and
bore of outlet pipe from compressor.
25
Fusible plugs are generally available for pressure up to 340 bar (5000 psi).
As an additional precaution regular inspections of the compressor should be
carried out (see paragraphs 142 to 170).

26
Air inlet/outlet monitoring

A water manometer or other pressure-indicating device should be fitted to
each inlet air filter on large compressors. The device measures the pressure
drop across the filter, indicating how clean it is. It is recommended, where it
is reasonably practicable to do so, that such devices be fitted to small and
medium compressors.

27
Other instrumentation
On medium and large compressors consideration should be given to fitting
temperature reading or recording instruments to indicate:
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(a)

(b)

(c)

air temperature at:

(i) the inlet to the compressor;
(ii) the outlet from the first stage of compression, near to the discharge

valve;
(iii) the inlet to the last stage of compression;
(iv) the outlet from the last stage of compression, near to the discharge

valve; and
(v) the outlet from the after cooler
oil temperature at:
(i) the crank case; or
(ii) with forced feed and scavenge lubrication system, the point where

the oil leaves the crank case;
water temperature at:
(i) the inlet to each cooling circuit (except on radiator-cooled sets); and
(ii) the outlet from each cooling circuit.
It is important that the user and manufacturer discuss whether such

instruments are needed.

28
Air inlet/outlet control

The inlet valve can either be designed so that it cannot be used in a partially
open position, or be fitted with visible and audible warnings that indicate
whether the valve is fully open or closed during plant operation. The valve
operation is normally automatic except when required for starting up the
compressor. Oil-flooded rotary compressors have built-in self-regulating inlet
throttles. Constant speed compressors should be provided with suitable
control gear so that the amount of air delivered can be controlled to suit
demand.
29 Figure 1 shows an illustration of a large compressor installation and the

positions at which safeguards are required or recommended. It is unlikely that
any installation will require all the safeguards indicated. The final requirement
will depend on relevant statutory requirements, the degree of supervision the
installation will receive and the local environment.

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KEY
Fusible plug
Thermal protective device
Water flow protective device
Oil level protective device
Oil pressure gauge
Air pressure gauge
NOTE
It is unlikely that any installation will require all the safeguards
indicated. However, a combination of these should be fitted,
taking into account the statutory requirements and the degree of
supervision the installation will receive.
A
B
C
D
E
F
Instruments will normally be mounted on a common panel

Cooling water discharge
Water or air flow
F
B
Air inlet
filter
J Safety valves or relief valves

K Non return valves
L Drain
Intercooler
I
B
I
G Oil pressure protective device

H Manometer
I Thermometer
Low
pressure
cylinder
Thermal protective device to

monitor air-cooled
compressor general
overheating
High
pressure
cylinder
Stop
valve
B F
Receiver
Receiver
identification
I J K
AR1
SWP
Manhole
Total
closure
unloader
I
B
D
E
G
I
Compressor
Aftercooler
Cooling water feed
Figure 1 Illustration of a large compressor installation showing the position at which safeguards are
required or recommended
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Air receivers

Statutory requirements
30 Both manufacturers and users should be familiar with the statutory

requirements applying to compressed air systems and air receivers. These
are principally contained in the Pressure Systems and Transportable Gas
Containers Regulations 1989. Additional recommendations are given in the
Approved Code of Practice Safety of pressure systems.
31
In premises where the air receivers must be cleaned and examined at

regular intervals and for air receivers with a value of pressure times volume
greater than 250 bar litres, the nature and frequency of the examination must
be contained in a written scheme of examination. The written scheme of
examination drawn up or certified by a competent person will normally specify
a period between examinations of 24 to 48 months.
32 When connected to an air compressing plant a receiver should either be

constructed to withstand the compressors maximum pressure safely, or
be fitted with a safety valve and a pressure-reducing valve to prevent the
receivers safe working pressure from being exceeded. When providing
a safety valve and pressure gauge for a set of air receivers that are
interconnected and collectively supplied through a single pipe, they may be
treated as one receiver, provided that:

(a) any reducing valve or other suitable appliance is provided in the single
supply pipe; and
(b) there is no means of isolating any interconnecting pipework.
33 The receiver should be fitted with a suitable safety valve complying with BS
6759, Part 2 or similar equivalent standard and adjusted so that air is allowed
to escape as soon as the safe working pressure has been exceeded. It is
essential that the valve is capable of discharging more air than the system
can supply to the receiver.
34 The receiver should be fitted with a correct pressure gauge complying with
BS 1780 or similar equivalent standard and which indicates pressure in bar,
lbf/sqin, or other suitable units.
35 There should be a suitable appliance, either manual or automatic, for draining
the receiver. It is recommended that manual drain valves should be full bore
and straight through, to minimise any build-up of debris which could prevent
tight shut off. Automatic drain valves should have adequate capacity for
liquid discharge, be designed to minimise debris build-up and have a manual
override to check performance. A strainer positioned immediately upstream
of the valve will help prevent debris build- up. Protection against freezing of
valves will be required in in low temperature conditions.
36
A receiver should have a suitable manhole, handhole or other means (as

determined by the relevant standards, for example BS EN 286-1 Specification
for simple unfired pressure vessels designed to contain air or nitrogen and BS
5169 Specification for fusion welded steel air receivers) to enable the interior
to be thoroughly cleaned and inspected.
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37 A receiver should be clearly marked, in a conspicuous position, with its safe

working pressure and other relevant information required by the Pressure
Systems and Transportable Gas Containers Regulations 1989. The details
should be clearly visible on the vessel or a plate attached to it.
38 A receiver should be readily distinguishable. This can be achieved by painting
on identification markings or by affixing a manufacturers plate, giving the
name of the manufacturer, serial number etc.

Hazards
39 The main hazard is that the vessel may explode because its safe working
pressure has been exceeded or because its ability to withstand pressure has
been reduced through corrosion fatigue or internal coke fires for example.

40 All new air receivers should conform to BS EN 286-1 or BS 5169, where

applicable, or to a standard providing equal integrity.

Precautions
41 To determine the required capacity, the compressor output and demand

pattern need to be taken into account. As a guide, this will be between six
and ten times the free air output of the compressor at normal pressure (litres/
second). Many users try to save on initial cost and make the mistake of
buying a receiver that is too small.
42 The drain valve, safety valve, examination holes and manholes need to be
accessible.
43 The scale of any gauges needs to be clearly visible.
44 On large compressor systems the air receiver should be fitted with a fusible
plug conforming to BS 1123, Part 1. If a fire breaks out nearby, the plug will
help to prevent an explosion by guarding against:

(a) the air temperature rising to the compressor lubricating oil flashpoint; or
(b) an explosion occurring below the designed working pressure because of

lost integrity owing to heat.
45 Welded-on brackets are often used to mount compressor-motor

combinations onto air receivers. Where this is the case, welding should be to
the specification and approval of the air receiver manufacturer. It should not
be carried out indiscriminately because the welder may unwittingly weaken
the receiver. Mounting brackets should be designed and fitted in accordance
with the applicable air receiver standard. It is good practice to weld mounting
brackets onto intermediate reinforcing plates rather than directly to the air
receiver.

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Coolers

Hazards
46 Many aftercoolers are pressure vessels and the associated hazards are
similar to those of air receivers (see paragraph 39).
47 Cooling plays an important part in the supply of good quality compressed air.
Intercoolers and aftercoolers lower the temperature of the compressed air.
These coolers are usually water or atmospheric air cooled. With very small air
compressors the function of the aftercooler (ie the lowering of the dewpoint
of the compressed air) is performed by the air receiver. For other cases a
separate aftercooler will normally be necessary.
Precautions
48 Air-cooled coolers usually rely on a good circulation of external air over the
heat exchanger surface to ensure effective transfer of heat. There should be
adequate space available around these heat exchangers to allow effective
cleaning of all surfaces. The cooling air inlets and outlets should not be
obstructed by loose equipment, materials etc or by any subsequently erected
building. Where possible the air inlet should be sited on the north side of the
building.
49 It is recommended, particularly at medium and large compressors, that
aftercoolers are fitted to the discharge side immediately after the compressor.
These are frequently provided with separators to remove oil and moisture
from the air.
50 A condensate separator with an automatic drain valve should be provided
at a suitable drainage point at the coolers compressed air outlet. Protection
against freezing of the valve will be required in low temperature conditions.
51 Where a fluid is used as the cooling medium, a coolant drain valve should be
fitted and the cooling circuit protected against corrosion. There should be
some way of measuring the inlet and outlet temperatures of the compressed
air and of the coolant.
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Air dryers

Hazards
52 The hazards associated with the shells of large dryers designed on the
tube-in-shell principle are similar to those of an air receiver (for information
on hazards see paragraph 39). A secondary hazard, should an air dryer not
function properly, is that moisture-laden air can cause a safety system to fail.
53 Air dryers are sometimes desirable where pipe runs have to be routed outside
buildings or where the compressed air is used outside buildings eg for
operating valves. Where exceptionally dry air is needed, eg for purging double
glazing units, air dryers are essential. There are two main types: refrigerant
and desiccant. Further classification can be found in BS 6754 Specifications
and testing of compressed air dryers.

54
Refrigerant
Refrigerant air dryers can usually reduce the dewpoint of the compressed
air to 2 C. This prevents condensation from forming in the distribution pipes
where the ambient temperature exceeds 2C. This may be suitable even
where short runs of pipe are routed in the open air, provided they are properly
insulated.

Dessicant
55 Desiccant dryers can reduce the pressure dewpoint of the compressed air to
very low levels, exceptionally, as low as -100C but normally, between -20C
and -40 C. The reduction in the pressure dewpoint of compressed air should
be closely related to the requirements of the plant or equipment installed.
A desiccant dryer normally consists of two chambers that both contain
desiccant - one on stream, the other being regenerated. An automatic inlet
valve directs air from the compressor to each chamber in turn, thus ensuring
a constant supply of dry air.
56
Positioning of the air dryer will depend on the customers particular

requirements, but will be either immediately between the aftercooler and
receiver (where fitted) or immediately after the receiver. Where the need
for exceptionally dry air represents only a small percentage of the total
compressed air used, a dryer may be located immediately upstream of the
particular plant where the dry air is needed.
Precautions
57 The chambers of air dryers are pressure vessels and should conform with
BS 5500 Specifications for unfired fusion- welded pressure vessels or to a
standard providing equal integrity. If means are provided for isolating the
dryer (and it is good practice to provide means of isolation for all equipment),
either the chambers should be constructed to withstand the maximum
pressure that can be generated by the compressor or a suitable pressure
reducing valve and a safety valve should be fitted to prevent the safe working
pressure of the chambers from being exceeded.
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58 Where there is no means of isolating the dryer from a suitable safety valve, eg
on the receiver, and where non-return valves are fitted to the dryer outlet (to
protect it from stored energy in the system), no safety valves are needed.
59 Some dryers regenerate the desiccant simply by passing a proportion of
the drier air through it. Others use heater coils embedded in the desiccant.
This latter type should be equipped with a thermal protective device that
can detect any temperature rise above the thermostat setting. Excessive
temperature rises due to thermostat failures have been known to lead to oil
mist explosions.

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Installation of compressors
60
Small compressor installations may easily be overlooked, especially if sited

in a separate enclosure outside the working area, and consequently may
not receive proper maintenance (see paragraph146-158). The design of
large installations will need to incorporate adequate access and suitable
lifting equipment to facilitate maintenance. If normal lighting is likely to
be inadequate, local lighting should be provided so that the working
area is adequately lit. Consideration should also be given to compressor
specifications if they are to be installed in possible hazardous areas, e.g. in
garage pits where a flammable atmosphere may be present.
Precautions

61
Small compressors
Where possible the compressor unit should be mounted at ground level and/
or in an area big enough to allow for inspection and maintenance.
62
Any platform used for access or as a place of work should be big enough for
a person to stand safely on it, and have guard rails and toe boards.
63 The unit should not be mounted on a plant structure where there is excessive
vibration.
64 Small units used to supply workshops and similar installations should be sited
where they are accessible and physically protected against damage from
material, tools and equipment. Where the risk of damage is high they should,
where possible, be installed in separate rooms adjacent to the main building
(see paragraphs 60 and 67).

65
Medium and large compressors

Where users are responsible for on-site system design and installation they
should follow the manufacturers instructions carefully. Medium and large
compressors should be located in a position (usually permanent) best suited
for the purpose and with access for ease of maintenance. This means that
the compressor, including its prime mover, air receiver, cooler etc. should be:
(a)
(b)

(c)

(d)

near the centre of the load to minimise pipe runs;

housed in a building that is insulated or heated to keep the ambient
temperature above freezing;
provided with adequate ventilating air to prevent overheating, and sited
so that the intake of moisture is minimised; and
sited away from dusty atmospheres and provided with adequate facilities
for draining of condensate.
66
There should be some means of controlling airborne dust and contaminants

in the vicinity of the compressor. The air intake should be provided with an
efficient filter.
Noise
67
Compressor noise is one of the most common noise problems associated

with the workplace and is potentially damaging. Reference should be made
to the Prevention of Damage to Hearing from Noise at Work Regulations,
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enacted on 1 January 1990, and the associated guides 1 and 2 and 3 to

8. Where noise from compressors is likely to cause exposure to hazardous
levels of noise, this should be included in the noise assessment (required
under the Noise at Work Regulations 1989) and the assessment should
indicate the degree of noise reduction required to reduce the exposure to
safe levels. Compressors should be supplied with noise emission information.
If this is not the case, purchasers should request this information which can
be used in the assessment. Noise control measures, if required, include the
following:

68
(a)
(b)

(c)
(d)
(e)

siting the compressor away from work areas;

providing the compressor with an acoustic enclosure( the need for
access and removal for maintenance will need to be addressed);
providing anti-vibration mountings;
the fitting of or improving the performance of silencers;
access to enclosures provided for compressors should only be
permitted to persons wearing suitable and effective ear protection.
HSE Guidance note PM 56 gives information and advice about nozzle design
to reduce noise.
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Main line systems

69
This section deals with the system of pipes, valves and fittings from the
source of the supply to the point of application or control.
Hazards
70
Inadequately sized and designed systems can lead to the operating units
being starved of air, causing machine malfunction. Repeated malfunctions
may tempt operators to adopt unsafe practices to overcome any problems.
Badly designed pipe runs and lack of isolation valves may expose
maintenance staff to unnecessary risks. Some grades of plastic pipework are
not recommended for use in compressed air installations and designers are
advised to consult manufacturers when selecting materials.
71
Incorrect maintenance of non-metallic bowls used on filters, traps,

separators and lubricators can lead to explosions. It is important to ensure
that all lubricants used to replenish lubricators are compatible with the
lubricator bowl and the equipment to be lubricated. Attention is drawn to
BS 6005 Specification for moulded transparent polycarbonate bowls used
in compressed air filters and lubricators, regarding installation, use and
maintenance of units fitted with polycarbonate bowls.
72
Compressed air systems invariably grow. It is important to take into account

any foreseeable expansion of the system, and generous allowance should be
made on the size of piping provided. The cost of installing a 50 mm diameter
pipe is little more than a 25 mm one, any difference being in the cost of
material. However, flow capacity of a 50 mm pipe is four times that of a 25
mm one and using the larger size ensures better performance and facilitates
future additions to the system at little extra cost. As a general guide the pipe
size would be such that the pressure drop between the receiver and the most
remote take off points would not exceed 5% of the required supply pressure
with a maximum of 0.3 bar (4 psi). The pipe size for initial main runs in any
system would not normally be less than the output port of the compressor.
73
There are two main types of compressed air system; single line and ring
main. Figures 2 and 3 show typical layouts, with positions indicated for
various valves, drains, filters, air line lubricators and pressure gauges.
74
Users should keep a schematic drawing of the air system showing pipe
runs, intended direction of air flow, and the positions of fittings such as
valves, drains, etc. The drawings should be amended when modifications or
additions are made to the system. Any graphic symbols used should comply
with BS ISO 1219 Fluid power systems and components. Graphic symbols
and circuit diagrams.
Precautions

75
Pipe-runs
The route of the pipe run and the position of valves and operating points
should be safe and convenient for those who will use and maintain the
system.
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76
The pipe route itself should not present a hazard or obstruct access and
should be routed away from any areas where it may be vulnerable to
mechanical damage.
77
There should be adequate and sufficient access ways, working platforms

and clearance space provided to enable the compressed air system to be
operated and maintained without exposing anyone to unnecessary risk.
78
Pipe runs should have a slight fall in the direction of air flow, and drainage
valves should be fitted at the lowest point, in such a way that moisture and
air can be discharged safely. A drain valve should be fitted at the bottom of
vertical pipe runs. Sections of pipe and valves that may have water in them
and may be exposed to frost should be suitably insulated. Note: receiver
drains generally have a heavier duty than normal pipe run drains-see
paragraph 35.
79
Pipe runs should be secured by brackets or other supports installed at

appropriate intervals to support the pipe system such that each removable
section is self-supporting and the remaining pipe is stable after removal. To
allow for expansion, particularly at the compressor/receiver discharge or
on straight runs exposed to sunlight or heat from the process, suitable and
adequate expansion devices should be fitted; eg bellows, loop bends, flexible
pipes. BS 3974:Parts 1-3 Specification for pipe supports gives details of
suitable methods.
KEY
Symbols
Description
Shut-off valve
Manual drain (water trap)
Automatic draining valve
Lubricator
Filter with manual control
Pipe fall in direction of air flow
Filter, pressure regulator
pressure gauge, lubricator
Control valve
Pressure gauge
Air cylinder(spring return)
Air
vent
Chute
operation
To
drain
Compressor
installation
Maintenance area
Air
grinder
To
drain
Air
point
To drain
Bin gate
operation
DO NOT CROSS-CONNECT AIRLINES

IN A SINGLE LINE SYSTEM
Figure 2 Single line system - typical layout
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KEY
Symbols
Description
Shut-off valve
Manual drain (water trap)
Automatic draining valve
Lubricator
Filter with manual control
Pipe fall in direction of air flow
Filter, pressure regulator
pressure gauge, lubricator
Control
point
Control valve
Pressure gauge
To
drain
Air cylinder (spring return)
Air
pump
B
Maintenance area
Air
point
Air
grinder
Chute
operation
Bin gate
Compressor
installation
Compressor
installation
Figure 3 Ring main system - typical layout
80
Piping and associated fittings connected between the compressor and

air receiver should be easy to clean. If carbon deposits build up in such
pipework there may be an explosion (see paragraph 24).
81
All outlet points should, where practicable, be taken from the top of the
pipe run, and a stop valve or self-venting ball valve (where necessary
complete with handle) should be provided adjacent to the connection point.
The connection point at any outlet should be arranged horizontally or face
downwards; upward facing connection points invariably fill with dirt and
prompt the bad practice of blowing out before use. Outlet points should
be provided at convenient places for all routine activities which require
compressed air. They should be positioned so that hoses attached to them
will not cross or obstruct the normal access to the workplace, and can be
connected without the need for climbing.
82
Pipe runs should be identified by painting the pipe light blue (BS colour
reference 20.E.51) in accordance with BS 1710. Where applicable the risk of
coupling up to the wrong compressed gas supply can be further reduced by
the use of non-interchangeable connections (see also paragraph 100).
83
Stop valves should be provided and positioned so that the complete

pipework system can be isolated from the compressed air supply. All branch
lines of subsections of the system should also have stop valves fitted to allow
separate isolation. Where appropriate each valve should have a facility to be
locked in the closed position.
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84
For ring mains or systems with dual supply, stop valves must be provided
which enable each individual air supply to be isolated from the pipework
system. This arrangement of stop valves will allow safe operating procedures
to be adopted during maintenance of the system and ancillary equipment.
85
Where air cannot be vented from the system or any part of the system
through the normal outlets, valves should be fitted for this purpose. The
valves specified should be suitable for the application. In most cases threeport valves or self-venting ball valves are the most suitable type for isolating
and venting; these valves should be arranged so that when the supply is shut
off, the downstream part of the air system is vented through the exhaust port
of the valve and provision made to lock the valve in this position.
86
Where valves are grouped, or where the purpose or location of the valve
is not obvious, a notice should be provided indicating the position and/or
purpose of the valve.
87
Lever operated stop valves can be inadvertently moved to the open position.
During maintenance they should be either locked in the closed position or the
lever handle should be removed.

88
Filters, traps, separators and lubricators

Filtration and lubrication to a standard of cleanliness appropriate to end
usage are necessary. Air line lubricators should be provided for operations
which involve air tools, air cylinders or air control valves; they should be
positioned after the stop valve and after any filter or separator. In both cases
it is essential that filters and lubricators are positioned after and adjacent to a
stop valve to allow safe service and maintenance. They should not be fitted
into ring mains where the direction of air flow is not controlled but into the
branch lines leading from them. High standards of filtration will be required for
instrument control or in the electronics industry. Ultra-high efficiency filtration
will be required in hospitals and the pharmaceutical, foodstuffs preparation
and brewing industries, and appropriate filters, traps or separators should
be fitted. Where extremely clean or sterile air is required specialist equipment
suppliers should be consulted. Precautions should be taken against the
ingress of dirt and other contaminants from the surrounding area through
careful siting of the compressor. The use of exhaust port filters should be
considered.
89
In most cases these components will have either metallic or transparent

plastic bowls (usually polycarbonate or polyamide), which have good
impact strength. The properties of the materials may however be adversely
affected by solvents, alcohols, cleaning solutions or synthetic lubricants
and maintenance in accordance with manufacturers recommendations is
essential. (NB Useful guidance for polycarbonate bowls is provided in BS
6005 Specification for moulded transparent polycarbonate bowls used in
compressed air filters and lubricators.) It is therefore essential that cleaning of
polycarbonate bowls is carried out with clean rags, and that material likely to
be contaminated with diluted soluble oils should be avoided. Where possible,
filters, separators and lubricators should be positioned so that the risk of
accidental damage to any non-metallic bowls is minimised. Even subsequent
minor knocks may lead to damaged bowls exploding. It is good practice to
shield all non-metallic bowls and manufacturers should ensure that such
bowls can be shielded. Specific requirements for filters, traps, separators and
lubricators are discussed in paragraphs 104, 105 and 109.
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90
Pressure regulators
Where it is necessary to protect equipment from overpressurisation,
pressure regulators should be provided and set to maintain a constant safe
downstream pressure. An air pressure gauge should be provided on the
outlet side. Depending on the level of risk created by overpressurisation all
adjustable controls should have some form of tamper-resistant protection.
Where the risk is low, a simple snap action lock should suffice. As the risk
increases, greater security against unauthorised adjustment is needed.
Consideration should be given to using models incorporating positive internal
stops or positive means of locking. For very high risks, non-adjustable models
may be the best answer; alternatively the adjustable items may be sited in
lockable enclosures with the key kept by a responsible person.
91
A pressure relief valve (safety valve) or other suitable overpressure protective

device should be fitted and set to relieve if the safe working pressure of the
equipment or vessel is exceeded. The relief valve should be positioned so
that if the valve discharges, the risk to personnel is minimised.
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Portable pneumatic equipment

92
The Pressure Systems and Transportable Gas Containers Regulations1989

and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations1992 set out the
duties of users and owners of portable pneumatic equipment.
93
The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations1992 set out what

eye protection is needed for certain processes using compressed air.
94
Under the Management of Health and Safety Regulations 1992 and the
Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 employers have a responsibility to train
their staff. Further advice on training is given in paragraphs 171 to 173.
Hazards
95
Both blow guns and hand held tools are usually connected to a length of
flexible hose which during the course of its life will be subject to mechanical
damage and considerable flexing. This damage and/or flexing particularly at
connection points can cause the hose to rupture. This can lead to sudden
discharges of compressed air and may cause unsupported lengths of hose to
whip and snake dangerously.
96
The practice of using blow guns for removing swarf, powdered materials etc
from components and from machinery is widespread throughout industry.
There are a number of hazards connected with the use of blow guns
including:
(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

(e)
97
By following the advice in the previous sections a clean, dry air supply should
be safely generated and distributed to all outlet points. The type of equipment
to be connected to the outlet point will determine what extra precautions, if
any, will be required. The most common range of devices will be air or blow
guns, portable tools or pneumatic powered machinery. Each has its own
particular requirements.
eye injuries - at air line pressures the air causes swarf or other particles
to move at high velocity creating a serious hazard to the eyes of the
operator or anyone nearby;
other injuries - injuries have been caused by discharging guns with the
nozzle held close to the skin. Very serious injuries, sometimes fatal, have
occurred when the nozzle of the gun has been pointed towards the
anus, even at some distance from it. Many of the injuries occur when
clothing is dusted down and because of this compressed air should
never be used for cleaning clothing; instead vacuum cleaners with brush
type heads are recommended. Others are the result of horseplay (see
also paragraphs 172 and 173);
dust explosions - there has been at least one serious explosion of a dust
cloud when a blow gun was used to remove flammable dust;
toxic hazards - the use of compressed air for cleaning toxic material can
result in the dispersal of the material into the air;
noise - blow guns frequently produce high noise levels.
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98
Precautions
99
Heavy, medium and light grades of hose are available. Where hoses are used
for semi-permanent distribution of compressed air, for example in quarries,
construction sites, shipyards, farmyards, garage forecourts etc, heavy grades
should be used. Medium and light grades are used for general purposes such
as fixed pneumatic machinery and pneumatic cylinders, small power tools
and portable equipment. Hoses used with hand-held power tools should be
light and flexible (but suitable for the duty).
Flexible hoses
When selecting a flexible hose, users should take into account the site
conditions, including temperatures, oils and pressures to which it will be
subjected. Where lubricating oil is present in pipelines, a grade of hose
resistant to that particular oil must be used. A synthetic based grade of hose
should be used for mineral oils and a natural based grade for vegetable oil.
Where fire and explosion risks may be present, the use of fire-resistant antistatic (FRAS) hoses should be considered. The manufacturers advice should
always be followed.
100 Tubes and hoses used to connect cylinders to their control valves are
available in a variety of colours to make fault finding and maintenance easier
(see paragraph 143). They should be neatly run and adequately secured.
If the failure of a flexible hose would be hazardous it should be further
restrained or shielded.
101 Coupling a portable tool to the outlet point is usually achieved by use of a
quick-acting connector. The connector should be designed so that when
disconnected it automatically seals the air pressure on the upstream side and
slowly vents the air pressure on the downstream side. For all hoses above 10
mm bore, more than 10 m long or subject to a pressure exceeding 7 bar, the
connector should have a self-venting socket which releases the downstream
pressure before disconnection is possible. Alternatively, a plug with a
controlled venting action should be used. These safety features prevent
inadvertent tool operation and uncontrolled whipping of the hose when its
inlet end is uncoupled from the socket. Another way of reducing whipping or
snaking is to fit emergency shut-off valves, hose rupture valves or air fuses
as close as practicable to the connector. The valves will close or reduce flow
to a very low level in the event of excessive air-flow conditions caused by a
failure of the hose (see also paragraph 83 about fitting of isolation valves). The
same requirement could be necessary when using plastic tubing.
102 Similar requirements for quick-acting connectors apply to most percussive
and vibrating air tools, which may be fixed or hand held. If a quick-acting
coupling socket is fitted at the hose end adjacent to the tool, the plug should
not be screwed directly into the inlet port but should be fitted onto a short
isolation hose (0.5 to 1.5 m long), thus isolating the plug and socket from the
tool vibrations.
103 Where hoses are used to suspend tools, the load strength of hose and
couplings should be at least five times the suspended load.

Blow guns
104 Blow guns consisting simply of a reduced orifice in direct line with the supply
hose can be extremely dangerous, unless preceeded by a pre-set tamperproof pressure regulator set at a reduced pressure from the normal 80 psi
airline supply. Models are available commercially which incorporate an air
curtain designed to provide a protective shroud around the nozzle. Although
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not completely safe, these designs significantly reduce the risk of eye injury
and the dangers from close skin contact. If designed correctly such nozzles
can often help to prevent the operator from being subjected to excessive
noise. Because air is vented directly into the atmosphere, clean dry air
is essential and lubricators should not be used. Blow guns can exhaust
significant quantities of air and place extra loading on the compressor
system. In view of this and the attendant risk arising from use of blow guns,
their use should be considered carefully with a view to using alternative
means for cleaning down machinery or components.

Portable tools
105 Pressure regulators should be used to reduce the pressure to the optimum
value for the safe and efficient use of the equipment. This value should be
clearly marked on the tool. Filters and lubricators should be fitted in the
supply pipe as shown at A in Figure 3. To prevent over-speeding, tools
with air motors should incorporate a governor or throttle. There should be
available an easily accessible means of isolating the air supply from the tool.
European Standard pr EN 792 Hand-held non electric power tools-Safety
covers design of drills, grinders, nibblers, polishers etc. It is poor practice to
pull portable tools using the hose or use it as a means of access by climbing
on to suspended hose . Old damaged hose should not be used to make up
fresh hose assemblies.

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Pneumatic powered machinery

Hazards
106 The hazards normally associated with powered machinery are equally
applicable to pneumatic powered machinery and suitable safeguards are
necessary as described in BS EN 982 Safety requirements for fluid power
systems and their components-Pneumatics and BS 5304 Code of Practice
Safety of machinery.
107 Unlike liquid fluid power media, compressed air is elastic (compressible),
and because of this, additional hazards can arise from stored energy and
actuators under load (see paragraphs 138 to 141). This hazard requires
particular consideration when the machinery is fitted with interlocking guards.
Interlocking systems are covered in paragraphs 129 to 137 of this booklet.
108 Where pneumatically powered machinery is connected to the outlet point

this should be by means of conventional connectors, eg compression or
push-in, push-on connectors with a shut-off valve. Plastic tubing made
from PVC or nylon is widely used, in particular for piping up pneumatically
operated machines employing pneumatic cylinders and valves. Compression
or push-in, push-on, connectors of various types can be used with the tubing
which is suitable for connecting to vibrating and moving parts by forming
loops which absorb the vibration or movement, but, as for flexible hoses
(Para 98) it is always necessary to consider site conditions when applying
plastic tubing. The specification for nylon tubing is given in BS 5409, Part
1. Note: To prevent errors during installation and maintenance, all
component parts should be clearly identified. The identification
should correspond to the data on the circuit diagram.
109 The machine should have its own filter, pressure regulator, pressure gauge
and lubricator set, as shown at Part B of Figure 3. With this arrangement,
optimum conditions for the operation of the particular machine can be set
without affecting any other equipment connected to the supply. If the filter,
pressure regulator, pressure gauge and lubricator set are properly maintained
(see paragraphs 160 to 170), wear on seals in actuators and valves will
be limited and the machinery should perform correctly and efficiently. The
likelihood of malfunctions, which could lead to unintended operation, will also
be reduced.
Precautions
110 To a large extent the design features needed will depend on how the
machine will be used. However, paragraphs 111 to 141 outline some basic
requirements for machine and circuit design.
111 All components used in the machine design, including connecting hoses,
should be able to withstand safely the maximum possible air main pressure.
The maximum safe working pressure of the machine should be clearly,
prominently and permanently marked on the machine.
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112 All components should be protected against over-pressurisation by the

provision of pressure relief valves unless the components can withstand the
compressors maximum pressure and will not be subjected to unacceptable
pressure build up due to high external loads.
113 The machine should be designed and constructed so that any components
which require adjustment or regular maintenance are easily and safely
accessible.
114 Supply or control system failure should not cause a hazard. To ensure that
such a possibility is minimised, the effects of gravity, impact or vibration
should be considered. For this reason, valves controlling actuators should be
mounted with the main spool horizontal. In addition, any actuators that have
to adopt a specific position for safety if the supply or control system fails

should be controlled by a valve which is spring biased (mono-stable) to the
safe position.
115 If the machine is to be provided with an emergency control it should, without
delay, stop or set moving parts to whichever position provides maximum
safety. The emergency control should be of the mushroom head type,
coloured red, prominently located and readily accessible to the operator.
Where an operator has to work from more than one position it may be
necessary to provide additional emergency controls. Operation of the
emergency control should not of itself create a hazard.
116 Where air is discharged to the atmosphere during the normal course of
operation of the machine, and this causes workers to be exposed to high
levels of noise, some method of reducing the workers exposure should be
considered. Components should be located, or shielded, so that operators
are not subjected to air blast from exhaust ports. If silencers are fitted,
these should be designed to create minimum back pressure and should
be compatible with water and any lubricants used. Alternatively an exhaust
hose can be fitted so that the air is discharged well away from workers, for
example under a factory roof (see HSE Guidance Note PM56 Noise from
pneumatic systems).
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Actuators

Hazards
117 Where linear actuators are used, special attention should be given to stroke
length, loading and the methods of mounting the cylinder to avoid buckling
of the piston rod and excessive side loading which could lead to piston rod
bearing and seal wear. Where shear forces on fixing screws are likely to
be excessive, the cylinder mounting should also be keyed or dowelled in
position. Alternatively, fitted bolts may be used.

118 Repeated shockloads on cylinder endcaps can eventually cause either the
cylinder or the piston rod assembly to fail, which could lead to serious injury.
Most cylinder manufacturers can supply cylinders with built-in cushioning
designed to reduce speed at stroke extremities, thus bringing the machine
component to a shockless stop. Equally hazardous is the potential for piston
and rod to separate. Cylinder manufacturers should ensure that pistons are
positively locked to the piston rod.

119 The function of the actuator determines the precautions necessary for a
safe design. If the purpose is to impart motion to a load which is otherwise
supported, the problem will be different from those for an actuator designed
to lift or lower a load. Cylinders designed to clamp pose yet another problem.

Precautions
120 For any actuators imparting motion, smooth action is preferable and
cushioning is desirable. If the cylinders are double-acting there may be
occasions, eg at start-up or following an emergency, when the cylinder is
pre-exhausted, causing the actuator to accelerate rapidly when air is first
introduced to the cylinder. Where this is likely to cause a hazard a soft start
arrangement should be introduced in the supply line to the machine. This will

initially restrict the flow rate until a certain predetermined pressure has been
reached.
121 Linear actuators with magnetic pistons and integral mounted reed switches
or proximity switches for signalling control valves are now popular. This
is largely due to the comparative cheapness of using electric or microelectronic control together with cost and space savings from not needing to
install independent mechanically actuated trips. Safeguarding pneumatically
powered machines where the control circuit is electrical requires extra caution
to ensure that the risk of injury is minimised if either the electric or pneumatic
power supply fails. Reed switches may malfunction in areas subjected to high
vibration levels or electromagnetic fields.
122 Actuators designed for lifting or supporting loads may collapse dangerously
if the supply fails. The machine should have spring-applied mechanical
scotches to support the load whenever movement is not required. In certain
instances mechanical scotches may be impracticable. As a safety back up
a normally closed, air to open, spring return valve in the cylinder supply line
could be used.
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123 Supply failure to clamping cylinders can lead to a hazard by releasing the
component prematurely. This can be overcome by using single acting
cylinders where the return spring applies the clamping force (see paragraph
127), or the use of two control valves will temporarily keep the cylinder
pressurised (see figures 4 and 5). But care should be taken in using this
design as even a small leak could affect the integrity of the system.
Cylinder
Stop
valve
(b) Control
valves
Guard
(a) Interlocking
valves
(c) Power control valve

(Air operated)
Figure 4 Single control system interlocking with piston arrest and hold (guard open)
Note: Figures 4 - 19 illustrate principles only, and they are not intended to provide all the
information needed to construct a safe working system.
124 Machines incorporating several actuators may require them to be set in a

certain position before the machine is first used, and subsequently, after the
emergency control or interlocking guards have been operated. Re-positioning
may be possible without re-establishing the pneumatic supply, but these
cases will be in the minority. In all other cases re-positioning is best achieved
by providing manual override controls. Such controls should be of the two
hand type ie designed so that the two controls are placed, separated and
protected to prevent spanning with one hand only, being operated with one
hand and another part of the body, or being readily bridged. It should not be
possible to set the actuators in motion unless the two controls are operated
within approximately 0.5 seconds of each other. Movement of the actuators
should be arrested, or where appropriate returned, immediately one or
both controls are released. BS EN 574 Two Hand Control Devices covers
functional aspects and principles for design of this type of control.

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Cylinder
Stop
valve
(b) Control
valves
Guard
(a) Interlocking
valves

(Air operated)
Figure 5 Single control system interlocking with piston arrest and hold (guard closed)
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Interlocking methods and circuit

design

125 The method used for interlocking should be commensurate with the risk. The
higher the risk the higher the integrity of the interlocking system should be.
126 Principles for design and selection of interlocking devices associated with
guards are given in EN 1088 and BS 5304. General principles for application
are given in BS EN 983 Safety of Machinery- Safety requirements for fluid
power systems and their components-Pneumatics.
127 On pneumatic machinery, because the power medium is compressible
and normally exhausted to atmosphere, the safety circuit design is not
straightforward as for other power media. However, the basic aims for
interlocking remain the same and, where possible, the power supply should
be interrupted by the guard operated interlocking device and any residual
system pressure exhausted to atmosphere. In this condition any cylinders
will be pre-exhausted and alternative arrangements in the system design will
be necessary where any cylinders are required to be under constant load
(see paragraph 122). In addition, particular precautions may be necessary
when reinstating the supply to pre-exhausted cylinders if rapid acceleration
is undesirable. To avoid the need to maintain supply pressure to cylinders
required to be under constant load, such as those operating clamps or
supports, alternative features should be considered, such as single-acting
cylinders, or spring applied mechanical scotches. Cylinders fitted with rod
locks, the locking action of which is triggered by loss of air supply, may also
be used to prevent uncontrolled movement.
128 Signal air lines should be kept to a minimum length to facilitate rapid exhaust
pressure decay. Where this is not practicable and pilot signals exhausting
to the atmosphere retain sufficient pressure levels to operate main control
valves (even after a guard has been opened), additional interlocking devices
should be provided which prevent opening of the guard until it is safe to do
so. When 3-position valves are used in safety circuits, where practicable the
centre position should provide a supply-sealed-only condition (outlets vented)
because an all-ports-sealed centre position can result in stored energy in the
actuator, leading to unintended movement if piping is disconnected.
Interlocking systems

Single control system interlocking
129 The basic elements of single control system interlocking (see Figures 4 and 5)
are:

(a)
(b)

(c)

an interlocking valve or position switch operated by the guard;

interposed control valves, electromechanical relays and/or solid-state
switching devices, if any; and
an air operated, solenoid operated or solenoid actuated air operated
valve, controlling power to the drive.
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130 Any of these elements, or the piping or wiring interconnecting them, can
fail and cause danger, so they should be chosen to provide the maximum
degree of reliability. The greater the number of devices incorporated in the
system, the lower its inherent reliability, so interposing devices should be
avoided if possible.
Dual control system interlocking
131 The basic elements are similar to those employed in single control system
interlocking. Where the possibility of common mode failure needs to be
minimised different control power media should be used and kept separate
except for necessary interconnections for cross monitoring (where provided),
and connection to the supply.
132 Such systems can be entirely pneumatic (see Figures 15 and 16), or hybrid
for example one system, pneumatic and one system, electric (see Figures
17 and 18). This latter arrangement may be particularly appropriate where
cylinders with magnetic pistons and integral reed switches or proximity
switches are used. In both systems the output of the power controlling
devices should be connected so that either can stop hazardous movement
of the machinery, irrespective of the condition of the other. Where the circuit
is such that a single failure is not self-revealing eg the actuator continues to
operate, the integrity of the dual control system can be improved by cross
monitoring (shown also in Figures 17 and 18).
Cylinder
Guard
Note:
Manual reprositioning of the
cylinder is possible with this
type of control valve.
(a) Interlocking
valves
(b) Control
valves

(Air operated)
Figure 6 Single control system interlocking with piston arrest (guard open)
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Cylinder
Guard
(a) Interlocking
valves
(b) Control
valves

(Air operated)
Figure 7 Single control system interlocking with piston arrest and hold (guard closed)
Cylinder
Guard
(a) Interlocking
valves
(b) Equalising
valve

(Air operated)
Figure 8 Use of an equalising valve - control interlocking (guard open)
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Cylinder
Guard
(a) Interlocking
valves
(b) Equalising
valve

(Air operated)
Figure 9 Use of an equalising valve - control interlocking (guard closed)
Cylinder
Guard
Equalising valve
(with power interlocking)
Control valve
(Air operated)
Figure 10 Use of an equalising valve - power locking (guard open)
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Cylinder
Guard
Equalising valve
(with power interlocking)
Control valve
(air operated)
Figure 11 Use of an equalising valve - power locking (guard closed)
Guard
Cylinder
Note
Cylinder returns
to instroke
position whenever
guard is open
Interposed
control
valves
Power
interlocking
valves
Reservoir
Power control valve

(Solenoid operated)
Figure 12 Use of a reservoir - power interlocking (guard open)
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Guard
Cylinder
Interposed
control
valves
Power
interlocking
valves
Reservoir
Power control valve

(Solenoid operated)
Figure 13 Use of a reservoir - power interlocking (guard closed)
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Guard
To
close
Spring
return
Sequence
Closed guard
A+
B+
C+ D+
AC- DBOpen guard
To ports
marked
Figure 14 Control system interlocking from complex sequence
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Cylinder
(b) Interposed
control valves
Guard open
(a) Interlocking
valves

(Air operated)
Figure 15 Dual control system interlocking without cross-monitoring, both channels pneumatic
(guard open)
Cylinder
(b) Interposed
control valves
Guard closed
(a) Interlocking
valves

(Air operated)
Figure 16 Dual control system interlocking without cross-monitoring, both channels pneumatic
(guard closed)
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Guard open
Cylinder
Monitor
Control
valves
Interlocking
valve
(Pneumatic)
Power
control
valve
Interlocking
switch
(electric)
Sol A
Monitor C
2nd channel
interposed power
control valve
Figure 17 Dual control interlocking, one control channel pneumatic and one electric, with electric cross
monitoring (guard open)
Guard closed
Cylinder
Monitors
Control
valves
Interlocking
valve
(Pneumatic)
Power
control
valve
Monitor C
Interlocking
switch
(electric)
Sol A
2nd channel
interposed power
control valve
Figure 18 Dual control interlocking, one control channel pneumatic and one electric, with electric cross
monitoring (guard closed)
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Drill
A3
Scotch
A4
B11
Clamp
A1
Clamp
A2
C1
B22
Drill
A5
B21
B31
C3
C2
Guard
lock A7
Feed
A61
B52
B51
B62
A62
B61
C6
C5
B72
C7
B72
B52
B62
B11
B21
B31
Single cycle sequence
B22
Run
V1
Single
cycle
V2
V3
B61
B51
Guard
Interlocking
valve
To
close
A7
Close guard
Scotch withdraws (A4 - )
Operate V2
Guard locks(A7+)
A1+
A2+
A3+
A5+
A2 - A3 - A5.
Guard unlocks (A7 -)
A61 & A62 Machine stops
Open guard
Scotch engages (A4+)
To lock
Figure 19 Guard operated power interlocking with scotch to prevent drill falling under gravity. Also fitted
with guard lock to prevent inadvertent opening

Power interlocking
133 Power interlocking is achieved by direct mechanical action of a valve in the
main air supply in series with the actuator. The mechanical action may be
direct from guard movement (see Figures 10 and 11) via a linkage, by a
captive key or a trapped key.
134 Interlocking by means of air isolation and exhaust may cause difficulties on
machinery which relies on the air supply to keep heavy articles suspended
or components clamped in position. Similarly, where complex machinery
is designed to perform a series of functions in sequence automatically (see
Figure 14), air isolation and exhaust interlocking could lead to the need
for potentially dangerous, extensive manual re-setting of actuators and
sequencing valves. For these reasons, power system methods of interlocking
are not normally practicable for complex air operated machinery and hence
control system interlocking of the pilot signals has to be used.
135 Where practicable, however, power system interlocking of complex systems
is better than single control system interlocking, provided the power
interlocking valve and the arrangements between the guard and valve are of
similar or higher integrity than the control system interlocking. In addition, any
machinery parts which are supported by compressed air and which would fall
under gravity when the air is isolated and exhausted should be automatically
scotched while the guard is open.
136 Such precautions are shown in Figure 19, the layout of which is in line with
BS ISO 1219-2 recommendations. Hazards arise from actuators Al, A2,
A3 and A5, which need safeguarding. Also, A3 operates vertically and will
Page 40 of 50
Health and Safety

Executive
fall under gravity when air supply, through the guard operated interlocking
valve, is exhausted. The circuit has thus been arranged so that, with the
guard open, A3 is scotched using a single acting cylinder. Once the guard is
closed the scotch withdraws and the guard is locked so that the sequence
cannot be broken by inadvertently opening the guard. The complete single
cycle sequence is indicated in Figure 19, where it can be seen that the guard
unlocks to allow manual feeding if necessary. Continuous cycling can be
effected by operating the valve labelled run. If, during use, a malfunction
occurs requiring the guard to be opened, this can only be achieved by
shutting the stop valve in the main air supply line.
137 All these problems highlight the need for the machine designer to
consider carefully the overall system design to ensure that the interlocking
arrangements are effective. Although in many cases interlocking the pilot
signals rather than the power supply may be the only practical solution (see
Figure 14), this should be a last resort only.
Circuit design

Piston arrest
138 Where it is necessary just to arrest the movement of a piston when a guard
is open, this can be achieved by using either two three-port, two-position
valves (see Figures 6 and 7) or an equalising valve (see Figures 8 to 11). If an
equalising valve is used the piston may not stop immediately, but it will seek
an equilibrium position whereby forces on both sides of the piston are equal.
The circuit in Figure 6 will allow manual repositioning of the piston without
disconnecting pipes (depending on the friction in the system). Neither of these
techniques is suitable for clamping or supporting applications.

Piston arrest and hold
139 Where, for safety reasons, the piston must be arrested and held in position,
two two-port control valves can be used (see Figures 4 and 5). The piston will
seek an equilibrium position before coming to rest. However, a hazard could
arise if connections to the cylinder are broken to subsequently override the
locked position. Air exhausting through the broken connection could allow air
under pressure on the opposite side of the piston to expand, thereby causing
movement which could lead to injury.

Overriding locked position
140 Where the locked condition must be overridden while the guard is open, a
two-port stop valve can be added to the circuit (see Figures 4 and 5). This
would normally have blocked ports but by depressing the stop valve both
sides of the cylinder are opened to atmosphere, enabling the piston to be
moved manually.

Predetermined position
141 It may be necessary to ensure that pistons adopt a predetermined safe
position in the event of power supply failing. Again the use of single acting
cylinders may be possible but an alternative is to use a reservoir and
nonreturn valve arrangement (see Figures 12 and 13). It is important to

ensure that where reservoirs are used they are of sufficient capacity to ensure
that the piston does not stall in an unsafe position.
Page 41 of 50
Health and Safety

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Inspection and maintenance

14 2 There are specific statutory requirements for the examination and

maintenance of pressure systems including air receivers (see paragraph
30). In addition to the specific requirements, general requirements are set
out in Section 2(2)(a) of the HSW Act and PUWER: employers must provide
and maintain plant and systems of work that are, so far as is reasonably
practicable, safe and without risks to health. The following advice is aimed at
assisting employers to carry out this duty.

Hazards
143 Fault finding on pneumatic machinery can be hazardous if it is not properly

planned. The machine design should incorporate means of minimising the
need for trial and error methods of locating a fault. Further assistance can be
given to fault finding by incorporating diagnostic techniques which indicate
the area of a fault (see also paragraph 100).

144 The efficient safe running of a compressed air system relies on cleanliness,
filtration, cooling and lubrication. The best way of achieving these four
conditions is to operate the plant in accordance with the operators manual
and to draw up and follow a written schedule of maintenance work which can
be revised in the light of experience. This is a form of safe system of work.
The written schedule should identify areas for attention, how often attention
should be given and the responsibilities of those who carry out and supervise
the work (see paragraphs 146 and 147).
145 The frequency of inspection depends very largely on the circumstances and
environment in which the plant is used. The frequency stated in this Booklet
should therefore be taken as a guide only and adjusted to suit particular
installations in the light of operational experience.

Maintenance of compressors and ancillary plant

Supervision and procedures
146 Small compressor units are easily overlooked, especially if sited in a separate
enclosure outside the working area. Particular care is needed to see that
regular maintenance, inspection and testing is carried out. Procedures should
be laid down and records kept.
147 The user should nominate a responsible person to supervise the proper
operation and maintenance of the compressor plant in line with the
manufacturers instructions.
148 This person should regularly check that all instructions regarding operation
and maintenance are properly followed and that the compressor, its
accessories and safety devices are kept in good working order. The
responsible person should also make sure that maintenance work is carried
out only by adequately trained staff.
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Health and Safety

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149 Although there are statutory requirements covering some aspects of

maintenance, the following additional maintenance procedures are
recommended to minimise the likelihood of hazards occurring.

Daily
150 The compressing plant should be kept as clean and free from oil deposits as
possible.
151 A daily routine check should be carried out on reciprocating compressors.
The check should, where applicable, include the following:

(a)

(b)

(c)
(d)

(e)
(f)

(g)
(h)

the cooling water should be visually checked to make sure that it is

circulating properly by observing the flow outlet or flow indicator;
the level of the oil in the crank chamber should be checked using a
dipstick, level gauge or other device. Any excessive usage of lubricating
oil should be investigated;
the oil pressure should be checked;
the oil feed to the cylinders should be checked to make sure that it
is adequate but not excessive. Oil consumption should be recorded,
as excessive consumption can often lead to explosions downstream of
the compressor;
the outlet air pressure and temperature should be checked;
the compressor performance should be checked eg by listening for any
unusual noises during running;
any defects found should be rectified and a record kept; and
at the end of each day any accumulation of oil and water should be
drained from the air receiver, the intercooler, the aftercooler and main
supply pipes.
Checks mainly directed to reciprocating compressors

Weekly
152 Each week the safety valves (where design allows) should be checked by
easing them by hand.

600 hours
153 After each 600 hours of running:

(a)

(b)

the quality of oil in the crank case should be checked and, according to
the manufacturers recommendations, replaced if necessary; and
the condition of the inlet air filters should be checked and thoroughly
cleaned or replaced. The interval between successive replacements
will be determined by local circumstances but is, to a certain extent,
controlled by the capacity of the filter and the cleanliness of the
atmosphere in the vicinity. Where oil wetted viscous filters are used,
spare units should be provided and excess oil should be drained
from the filter units for at least four to eight hours before the units are
replaced, except where the manufacturer advises otherwise.

Six-monthly
154 Where oil coke deposits are liable to occur, the explosion risk can be reduced
by carrying out six-monthly inspections of the delivery ports and pipework
and cleaning as required. The period between inspections can be modified in
the light of experience gained from operating a particular installation.
Page 43 of 50
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2000 hrs or annually
155 After each 2000 hours of running or annually (whichever is the sooner):

(a) in the case of oil lubricated compressors, the delivery valves, ports and

all the pipework, vessels and fittings between the delivery port and that

point in the system

at which the air temperature can be confidently expected to be below

80C, should be inspected. Any carbonaceous deposit should be

effectively removed;

(b) fusible pellets or complete plugs should be replaced;

(c) the condition of protective devices should be checked and tested to

determine that they operate correctly;

(d) the intercooler and aftercooler sections should be cleaned;

(e) the radiator should be drained and washed out;

(f) the output control gear should be cleaned and inspected; and

(g) the air receiver should be thoroughly cleaned and examined internally.

Precautions
156 All maintenance work, other than routine checks to filters designed for
cleaning in-service, should be undertaken only when the compressor has
been stopped, disconnected and locked off from the power supply and all
internal pressure dissipated. Other precautions may also be necessary: for
example, the compressor may have to be scotched to prevent movement of
the mechanism.
157 Under no circumstances should flammable liquids by used for cleaning.
Appropriate safety precautions should be taken against any toxic vapours
liberated during usage of any cleaning or degreasing liquids.
158 An open flame should never be used for inspecting the interior of a
compressor, pressure vessel or pipework.
Maintenance of air powered equipment
159 Dirty and wet air and worn components are among the most common
causes of hazards associated with air powered equipment.

Supervision and procedures
160 The user should nominate a responsible person to supervise the regular
inspection and maintenance of the equipment. Where the equipment is
extensive, some form of written system of planned maintenance should be
used and records of tests, repairs and modifications kept.
161 In addition to any maintenance required by statutory requirements, the
following maintenance procedures are recommended.

Daily
162 The system should be checked for leaks and repairs carried out as
necessary.
163 At the end of each day any accumulation of water should be drained from the
drain points. The drain valves should be inspected to make sure that they are
not choked with sediment.
Page 44 of 50
Health and Safety

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Weekly
164 At the end of each week, air line lubricators should be topped up as
necessary with the correct grade of oil and checked to ensure that they are
providing adequate but not excessive lubrication. Filters should be checked
and those that are clogged or causing unacceptable flow restrictions should
be replaced.
165 Similarly, on machines which require pressure regulation below mains
pressure, the pressure regulator should be checked to make sure that it has
not been tampered with and that the correct pressure is maintained.

Monthly
166 All hoses which are subject to flexing and/or mechanical damage should be
inspected for signs of cracking or deterioration and replaced as necessary.
Particular attention should be paid to areas adjacent to couplings.

Three monthly
167 Every three months machines with interlocking guards should be checked
to make sure that all interlocking valves are firmly secured and operated
positively by their cams. Check that wear in any linkages or valve operating
mechanisms is not so excessive that the valve is in danger of malfunctioning.

Six monthly
168 Every six months all stop valves should be checked. Check that access to
the valve has been maintained, that the handle is in position, that it will shut
off the air supply and that it will open fully and operate freely.
Precautions
169 Before any pressurised components are dismantled they should be effectively
isolated from all pressure sources and completely vented to atmosphere.
Precautions should also be taken to guard against the possibility of injury
through sudden release of trapped springs.
170 When components, especially valves, are found to be worn and service kits
of seals are used to rebuild them, care should be taken to check thoroughly
the function of the rebuilt valve before placing it in the equipment. For
convenience, manufacturers of service kits often include enough seals to
service a range or family of valves, although not all the seals in the kit are
required for each valve. Incorrect seal replacement can completely alter the
valves function and if replaced in the equipment could present a serious
hazard. Manufacturers should supply clear instructions on how to use such
service kits properly and supervisors should ensure that this information is
passed on to the person carrying out the maintenance.

Page 45 of 50
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Training

171 Section 2(2)(c) of the HSW Act and Management Regulations and
Regulations 8 & 9 of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations
(PUWER) requires every employer to provide such information, instruction,
training and supervision as is necessary to ensure, so far as is reasonably
practicable, the health and safety at work of their employees. Sections 7 and
8 of the HSW Act place responsibilities on employees to take reasonable care
to co-operate with employers and not to interfere with or misuse anything
provided for their safety.
Hazards
172 All those who, in the course of their work, need to use compressed air
must be properly trained. Many accidents would be avoided if adequate
training was provided. It is probably because compressed air supplies are
so commonplace, being found at most garage forecourts, for example, that
employers falsely believe that training in their use is unnecessary.
Precautions
173 Supervisors and workers including maintenance personnel must be given

proper training in safe working practices. The training should stress the
hazards associated with compressed air (see paragraph 2) and should
highlight the following points:

(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)
(e)
(f)
compressed air should never be used for cleaning clothing; vacuum

cleaners with brush type heads are permissible. For other cleaning
operations special nozzles designed to provide low pressure, high
volume may be used with care (see paragraphs 96b and 104);
horseplay with compressed air is extremely dangerous and is strictly
forbidden. Employers should note that young people in particular may
require special supervision to make sure that they behave properly;
when using compressed air tools the exhausting air should be directed
away from the body;
compressed air should never be used near a naked flame;
any defects in equipment should be reported at once; and
safety and monitoring devices should never be misused or abused.
Further information
The following five publications are produced by the European Committee on
Manufacturers of Compressors, Vacuum Pumps and Pneumatic Tools (PNEUROP):
Safety recommendations for the use and operation of portable air compressors
London
Safety recommendations for the use and operation of stationary air compressors
London
Pneumatic tools - safety in operation London
Page 46 of 50
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Safety recommendations for the use and operation of portable pneumatic tools
London
Recommendations for the proper use of hand held and hand operated pneumatic
tools London 1986
British Compressed Air Society (BCAS) produces: Guide to the selection and the
installation of compressed air services London, 4th edition ISBN 0 905608 02X and
A guide to compressor noise reduction London, under revision
European Oil Hydraulic and Pneumatics Committee (CETOP) Hydraulic and
pneumatic systems circuit diagrams London

(PNEUROP, BCAS and CETOP publications are available from the British
Compressed Air Society, 33/34 Devonshire Street, LONDON W1N 1RF)
Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA) Beware compressed
air Birmingham, (IS 303) (available from: ROSPA, Cannon House, The Priory,
Queensway, BIRMINGHAM B4 6BF)
British Aggregate Construction Materials Industry Compressed Air Safety London
(available from: British Aggregate Construction Materials Industry, 25 Lower
Belgrave Street, LONDON SW1 OLS)
British Coal Reciprocal air compressors (surface and underground) (NCB codes and
rules series) Doncaster (available from: British Coal, HQ Mining Department, The
Lodge, South Parade, Doncaster DN1 2DX)
British and European Standards

BS 1041:
Temperature measurement
BS 1041:
Part 2 Expansion thermometers (in seven parts)
BS 1041
Section 2.1:1992 Guide to selection and use of liquid-in-glass

thermometers
BS 1041:
Part 3: 1969 Industrial resistance thermometry
BS 1041:
Part 4:1992 Thermocouples
BS 1041:
Part 5: 1992 Radiation pyrometers
BS 1041:
Part 7: 1988 Guide to selection and use of temperatureltime

indicators
BS 11 23:
Part 1: 1987 Safety valves, gauges, gas and fusible plugs for

compressed air or inert installations: code of practice for installations
BS 1710:
1991 Specification for identification of pipelines and services
BS 1704:
1992 Specification for solid stem general purpose thermometers
BS 1780:
1992 Specification for bourdon tube pressure and vacuum gauges
BS 2917-1 1993 / ISO 1219-1 Specification for graphic symbols used on

diagrams for fluid power systems and components
BS 3974:
Specification for pipe supports (in three parts)
BS 3974:
Part 1: 1974 Pipe hangers, slider and roller type supports
BS 3974:
Part 2: 1978 Pipe clamps, cages, cantilevers, and attachments to

beams
BS 3974:
Part 3: 1980 Large bore, high temperature marine and other

applications
BS EN 286 Part 1: 1991 Specification for simple unfired pressure vessels

designed to contain air or nitrogen
BS EN 292 Part 1: 1991 Safety of machinery: Basic concepts, general principles

for design. Basic terminology, methodology

Part 2: Technical principles of specifications
Page 47 of 50
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BS EN 983 1996 Safety of Machinery- Safety requirements for fluid power

systems and their components-Pneumatics
BS EN 1012-11997 Compressors and vacuum pumps-Safety requirements Part 1

Compressors
BS EN1012-2 1997 Compressors and vacuum pumps-Safety requirements Part 2

Vacuum pumps
BS EN 837 Part 1 Bourdon tube pressure gauges-Dimensions,

metrology,requirements and testing

Part 2 Selection and installation recommendations for pressure

gauges
BS ISO 1219 -1995 Fluid power systems and components. Graphic Symbols and

circuit diagrams
BS 4575:
1987 Part 2: Code of practice for pneumatic equipment and systems

1988 Part 3: Fluid Power Transmission and Control Systems
BS 4862:
1983 Mounting dimensions of single rod double 10 bar pneumatic

cylinders
BS 4862:
Part 1: 1983 Specification for cylinders up to 25 ml bore
BS 5118:
1980 Specification for general purpose rubber hoses for compressed

air
BS 5169:
1992 Specification for fusion welded steel air receivers
BS 5304:
1988 Code of practice. Safety of machinery
BS 5409:
Specification for nylon tubing
BS 5409: Part 1:1976 Fully plasticized nylon tubing types 11&12 for use

primarily in pneumatic installations
BS 5500:
1994 Specification for unfired fusion welded pressure vessels
BS 5791:
Glossary of terms for compressors, pneumatic tools and machines
BS 5791:
Part 1 1990 General
BS 5791:
Part 2 1990 Compressors
BS 5791:
Part 3 1990 Pneumatic tools and machines
BS 6005:
1997 Specification for moulded transparent polycarbonate bowls

used in compressed air filters and lubricators
BS 6066:
1986 Specification for thermoplastics hoses for compressed air
BS 6244:
1982 Code of practice for stationary air compressors
BS 6754:
1986 Specifications and testing of compressed air dryers
BS 6759:
Safety valves
BS 6759:
Part 1: 1984 Specification for safety valves for steam and hot water
BS 6759:
Part 2: 1984 Specification for safety valves for compressed air or inert

gases
BS 7226:
1989 Methods of test for performance of inlet air cleaning equipment

for internal combustion engines and compressors
British Standards are available from:
BSI Sales and Customer Services
389 Chiswick High Road
Chiswick
London W4 4AC
Tel 0181 996 7000
Fax 0181 996 7001
Health & Safety Executive publications

Pneumatic nailing and stapling guns
1979, (Guidance note, plant and machinery/PM 17), ISBN 0 11 883192 5
Noise from pneumatic systems
1985, (Guidance note, plant and machinery/PM 56), ISBN 0 11 883529 7
Page 48 of 50
Health and Safety

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Safety in pressure testing

1992 (Guidance note, general series/GS 4) ISBN 0 7176 0811 5
Safety of pressure systems. Pressure Systems and Transportable Gas Containers
Regulations 1989 Approved Code of Practice COP37 1990 ISBN 0 11 885514 X
A guide to the Pressure Systems and Transportable Gas Containers Regulations
1989 ISBN 0 11 885516 6
Legal requirements
Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 1992 (as amended 1994)
ISBNS 0-11-025719-7 & 0-11-045063-9
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations1992 (as amended 1997)
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992
Mines and Quarries Act 1954, HMSO, ISBN 0 10 850389 5
Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 1992
Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, chapter 37, HMSO, ISBN 0 10 543774 3
Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
The Pressure Systems and Transportable Gas Containers Regulations 1989 (SI
1989 No 2169), HMSO, ISBN 0 11 098169 3
The future availability and accuracy of the references listed in this
publication cannot be guaranteed.
Page 49 of 50
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Further information
For information about health and safety ring HSEs Infoline Tel: 0845 345 0055
Fax: 0845 408 9566 Textphone: 0845 408 9577 e-mail: hse.infoline@natbrit.com or
write to HSE Information Services, Caerphilly Business Park, Caerphilly CF83 3GG.
HSE priced and free publications can be viewed online or ordered from
www.hse.gov.uk or contact HSE Books, PO Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk
CO10 2WA Tel: 01787 881165 Fax: 01787 313995. HSE priced publications
are also available from bookshops.
British Standards can be obtained in PDF or hard copy formats from the BSI online
shop: www.bsigroup.com/Shop or by contacting BSI Customer Services for hard
copies only Tel: 020 8996 9001 e-mail: cservices@bsigroup.com.
The Stationery Office publications are available from The Stationery Office,
PO Box 29, Norwich NR3 1GN Tel: 0870 600 5522 Fax: 0870 600 5533
e-mail: customer.services@tso.co.uk Website: www.tso.co.uk (They are also
available from bookshops.) Statutory Instruments can be viewed free of charge
at www.opsi.gov.uk.
Published by HSE 02/10
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Health and Safety

Compressed air safety

This is a free-to-download, web-friendly version of HSG39

ISBN 978 0 7176 1531 5

Health and Safety

Crown copyright 1998

Health and Safety

Compressed air safety

Health and Safety

Compressed air safety

Health and Safety

This booklet explains how to minimise the likelihood of such problems,

Compressed air safety

Health and Safety

Many medium and large compressors are supplied as packaged units. A

Using a packaged unit has a number of advantages; it simplifies foundation

10 The major hazard associated with compressors is overpressurisation, which

a blocked outlet or some other restriction to flow;

General information and advice

Standards for the safe design, construction, installation and operation of

Compressed air safety

Health and Safety

for stationary air compressors. It specifies requirements to help minimise

Transmission machinery eg V belts, pulleys and other dangerous parts,

Where an isolating valve is installed in the discharge pipework between the

17 On medium and large reciprocating compressors with forced feed lubrication

On large two-stage compressors a thermal protective device should also

Compressed air safety

Health and Safety

For medium and large air-cooled compressors protective devices should be

Oil-flooded rotary compressors should have an automatic shut-down device

maximum design working pressure;

Air inlet/outlet monitoring

Compressed air safety

Health and Safety

air temperature at:

It is important that the user and manufacturer discuss whether such

Air inlet/outlet control

29 Figure 1 shows an illustration of a large compressor installation and the

Compressed air safety

Health and Safety

Instruments will normally be mounted on a common panel

Water or air flow

J Safety valves or relief valves

G Oil pressure protective device

Thermal protective device to

Cooling water feed

Compressed air safety

Health and Safety

30 Both manufacturers and users should be familiar with the statutory

In premises where the air receivers must be cleaned and examined at

32 When connected to an air compressing plant a receiver should either be

A receiver should have a suitable manhole, handhole or other means (as

Compressed air safety

Health and Safety

37 A receiver should be clearly marked, in a conspicuous position, with its safe

General information and advice

40 All new air receivers should conform to BS EN 286-1 or BS 5169, where

41 To determine the required capacity, the compressor output and demand

45 Welded-on brackets are often used to mount compressor-motor