When you’re working in a shop, safety is your top concern. Injuries affect the health and welfare of your workers and can deal a major blow to productivity. That’s why it’s important to know the OSHA regulations that govern air blow guns.
Air blow guns are used in a variety of different contexts, from cleaning surfaces to blowing water, dust, and debris off car parts during a repair. With variable airflow and ergonomic designs, they can make it easier to complete your most important projects.
If you haven’t looked at the OSHA standards for safety, learn how to stay compliant when using these tools.
Why Does OSHA Issue Safety Standards for Air Blow Guns?
When used properly, there’s little to no risk of injury from air blow guns. However, if used improperly, an air blow gun can quickly become a safety hazard. Issues may involve:
- Using an air gun to brush dust or debris off your skin, which can cause tissue damage or, in worst-case scenarios, an embolism
- Using an air gun in a manner that’s inconsistent with the manufacturer’s guidelines, which can cause particles or debris to become embedded into the skin, eye, etc.
Injuries resulting from the above actions have driven OSHA guidelines on safer operations. The guidelines apply only to air blow guns used for cleaning and shouldn’t be taken for safety or compliance advice. When needed, contact OSHA or an expert who can work with you directly in your shop.
What Do OSHA Guidelines Require?
OSHA has created two relevant directives that relate to air blow guns: 41CFR 50-204.8 and 29CFR 1910.42 (b). OSHA released a document that outlines the safety guidelines detailed in these directives. Their primary intent is to allow for proper cleaning operations and prevent chips and other particles from being blown into the air where they might injure workers’ eyes or skin.
According to the guidelines, the design of the air blow gun orifice and the velocity of the air passing out of the nozzle must not cause debris to be blown into the eyes or skin. Any relief vents or ports must also not be a hazard to the worker.
To accomplish this, the PSI output of an air blow gun should not exceed 30 PSI in a cleaning situation. Not only does this help prevent direct injury, but limits the instances of a backup of air in the line that could become dangerous if the end of the nozzle is blocked or obstructed.
Need to get in compliance? There are two options. You could look for a solution that automates airflow, or you can select a more flexible air gun option that lets you manually select a pressure that’s in compliance with OSHA guidelines.
How Can You Make Sure That Your Tools Are Compliant?
Let’s take a deeper look at the different strategies that can ensure your air blow gun is OSHA compliant. Fundamentally, this comes down to two different approaches to regulating the PSI.
One option is to regulate pressure through the line to ensure that it’s no higher than 30 PSI when it reaches the nozzle.
The second is to install a safety nozzle that throttles airflow and keeps the outflow pressure to no more than 30 PSI. You may also use an adjustable nozzle to adjust your PSI to stay compliant with the OSHA guidelines.
One popular choice for staying in compliance with OSHA regulations for air blow gun airflow is a venturi nozzle. Venturi nozzles create constrictions within pipes to vary the flow of air. Some nozzles also include other design features that can help let off pressure.
Check Your Equipment to Ensure Safety
Now that you understand the OSHA regulations, it’s time to take a closer look at your own equipment and make sure it’s in compliance. A few moments can help keep your team safe, no matter when or how they’re using air blow guns in their work. Getting into compliance may be as easy as purchasing a new nozzle or you may find you’re already doing everything needed for success.
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