Compressed Air: It is Not a Cleaning Tool

Why this matters

• Compressed air is high-pressure energy, not just a breeze. Many workers use it to blow dust off their coveralls or skin after a shift. This is one of the most dangerous habits on a site.
• The pressure is strong enough to force air through your skin and into your bloodstream. This creates an air bubble that can reach your heart or brain. It can also drive small pieces of grit or metal into your eyes and ears at very high speeds.

Talking points

• Never use compressed air to blow dust or dirt off your body, hair, or clothes.
• Always wear impact-resistant eye protection when using air tools to prevent flying debris.
• Check all hose connections for safety pins and whip checks before you turn on the air supply.
• Never point an air hose at another person, even as a joke: it can cause permanent injury.
• Use a brush, a vacuum, or a wet cloth to clean surfaces instead of blowing dust into the air for everyone to breathe.
• If a hose begins to whip or dance, do not try to grab it: go to the source and turn off the air supply immediately.

Ask the crew

• Why is it dangerous to use compressed air on your skin?
• What safety device prevents a hose from whipping if the coupling fails?
• What should you use instead of air to clean your dusty coveralls?

Tools and study guides

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