osha air compressor safety valve supplier

An OSHA COMPRESSED AIR SAFETY SHUT-OFF VALVES should be placed immediately after the air control shut off valve and before the hose on a compressor, and after each discharge port that a hose is connected to.

Before starting the compressor the air control valve should be closed completely. When the compressor unloads, open the air shut off control valve very slowly. Full port ball valves tend to work better than gate or butterfly type valves.

The air shut off control valve must be fully open for the OSHA COMPRESSED AIR SAFETY SHUT-OFF VALVES to work. Some portable air compressor manufacturers recommend start-up with the air control valve slightly open. In this case you may have to close the valve and reopen it slowly to the full open position, or wait for the safety shut-off valve to reset itself.

If the OSHA COMPRESSED AIR SAFETY SHUT-OFF VALVES fails to operate despite meeting all condi-tions, check the hose line for obstructions or a hose mender restricting normal air flow.

• Turn on air supply slowly (to avoid tripping OSHA safety valve). Prior to fully reaching operation conditions, the OSHA COMPRESSED AIR SAFETY SHUT-OFF VALVES should suddenly activate and stop air flow.

• If the OSHA COMPRESSED AIR SAFETY SHUT-OFF VALVE is not activated the unit should be disconnected and the lower flow range OSHA COMPRESSED AIR SAFETY SHUT-OFF VALVES should be used. This means you need to use a different valve with a lower scfm range.

• At temperatures below 40°F ensure that OSHA COMPRESSED AIR SAFETY SHUT-OFF VALVES are not subject to icy conditions which may prevent proper functioning.

Thank you for your letter dated January 31 concerning your constituent, Mr. James Lyle McCloy II, President of Compressed Air Parts Company. Mr. McCloy is concerned about the lack of enforcement by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) of its rules requiring safety check valves on compressed air equipment. I apologize for the delay of this response.

As Mr. Roy Gurnham of my staff discussed with Mr. Mark Staudohar of your office in mid-February when he called to explain we could not meet with Mr. McCloy at the time, OSHA continues to recognize the need for safety check valves and is concerned that accidents have occurred because such valves were not provided as required. We will remind our compliance officers of the importance of this provision and that their inspections should include a review of such equipment as appropriate.

As you may be aware, the State of Arizona is responsible for occupational safety and health enforcement within the State under a plan approved and monitored by Federal OSHA. Under its plan, Arizona adopts standards identical to those promulgated by Federal OSHA and utilizes equivalent enforcement procedures. If your constituent wishes to discuss safety and health enforcement in Arizona, we suggest that he contact the Arizona industrial Commission at the following address:

The enclosed information is sent for your consideration. Please investigate this matter and forward to me the information for response to my constituent, Mr. James Lyle McCloy II, President of Compressed Air Parts Company.

Introducing our product in mid 1972, with several other manufacturers, sales were quite brisk and the Department of Labor was very active insuring compliance. Since early 1976 enforcement has been very `spotty". As of this time only ourselves and one other manufacturer are still providing valves to meet Federal Regulations. Fortunately we have been the primary source.

Recently we were dismissed from a One Million Dollar ($1,000,000) product liability suit in which it was determined that the air compressor in use was not equipped with a safety check valve as required. This incident took place on a Federally funded Interstate bridge repair contract. Also, there is currently a multi-million suit concerning the lack of a safety check valve (actually there was a valve on the compressor but was removed for unknown reasons). In that case a worker has a severe head injury and has been in a nursing home for two years and cannot recognize his family.

OSHA valve is a safety device that shuts off air flow to hose in case of excess pressure. Provides safety to the operator and surroundings. Made of heavy-duty steel. Use with 3/4’’ diameter hoses and 185-210 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of air pressure.

*OSHA 29 CFR 1926.302(b)(1): Pneumatic power tools shall be secured to the hose or whip by some positive means to prevent the tool from becoming accidentally disconnected.  Additionally 1926.302(b)(7) states:  All hoses exceeding ½-inch inside diameter shall have a safety device at the source of supply or branch line to reduce pressure in case of hose failure.

The check valve should be the same diameter as the hose that will be used, do not increase or decrease the hose size from the compressor or manifold after the check valve is installed.  Do not use a check valve of a different size to reach a desired SCFM cut off range.

Per Section 1417 of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) use Lead free parts in all consumable water applications.  Lead free refers to the wetted surface of pipes, fittings and fixtures in potable water systems that have a weighted average lead content = 0.25%. Source: California Health & Safety Code (116875). Vermont Act 193*171NLF

New replacement air compressor pressure safety relief valves. Using the correct one for your application is critical for safety. If you need help picking the right one, please call us for assistance.

ISO 9001:2000 certified worldwide manufacturer & distributor of OSHA conforming compressed air safety lockout valves. Specifications include ambient & media temperature ranging from 40 degree F to 175 degree F, nitrile elastomers, compressed air fluid media, inlet pressure up to 150 psig, zinc plated steel screws, acetal slides & valve colors including yellow, red. Services include contract manufacturing, CNC machining, metal treatment, injection molding, painting, assembly, sonic welding, inspection, packaging, labeling & shipping. JIT delivery. Seven year warranty on products.

Bimba Manufacturing introduces a new safety valve (lock out – tag out style) to its line of Air Preparation Products. Current OSHA and ANSI/PMMI standards1 require a lockout valve installed on all air-operated equipment to isolate the equipment from its air supply and to exhaust all downstream air pressure making the equipment safe for maintenance.

The Pneumatic Isolation Valve (PIV Series) is available in nine sizes, from 1/4″ to 1-1/2″ with a full range of accessories to help companies conform to these standards. Many competitive models fail to comply with these standards due to reduced-sized exhaust ports and designs that can be locked in a “partially on” condition.

The new PIV Series catalog is available in electronic format on the Bimba website. Learn more about Bimba’s Pneumatic Isolation Valve, reference safety standards and view real-time pricing and delivery information at www.bimba.com.

Is it prohibited to use compressed air to clean up or move combustible dust if such action could cause the dust to be suspended in the air and cause a fire or explosion hazard?

____ Are safety chains or other suitable locking devices used at couplings of high pressure hose lines where a connection failure would create a hazard?

____ Is it prohibited to use compressed air to clean up or move combustible dust, if such action could cause the dust to be suspended in the air and cause a fire or explosion?

Copies of valid "Permits to Operate" for air tanks, liquefied petroleum tanks or boilers are available from the Pressure Vessel Unit Headquarters Office for a replacement fee of $45.00. To request permit copies:

Click on the heading to access the searchable and printable pressure vessel database showing the current permit and inspection activities for all steam boilers, air tanks, and LPG tanks in the State of California.

Although compressed air is commonly used to deliver power at construction sites, manufacturing facilities, and automotive garages, it should be treated with the same caution as other energy sources. It’s vital that compressed air system operators have proper training, read all instruction manuals thoroughly, and understand how to mitigate safety risks and potential damage.

It is important to remember that air compressors can be hazardous as the output is under such pressure that even brief contact with protected skin can cause abrasions, cuts, or other injuries. In rare cases, impact from compressed air has been known to cause traumatic organ damage.

Flying particles and debris: Highly pressurized air and pneumatic tools can cause flying debris. If the debris strikes an operator, the pieces can cause bodily injury or become lodged in the machine and cause machinery damage.

High pressures: If high-pressure air is injected into the body, dangerous conditions and injuries such as air embolism, ruptured eardrums, and ruptured organs can result.

Every operator needs to undergo proper training and learn the relevant safety standards before using an air compressor. It is also important to check air compressor safety regulations from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to ensure you comply with any regulations that apply to your machines. The way your workspace is laid out can have a significant impact on safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Relief valves: Relief valves automatically release air if the pressure in tanks gets too high. The relief valves are important safety features, so they should never be adjusted, bypassed, or removed.

Drain valves: Electric drain valves need to be placed at least a foot and a half above the ground. Electric drain valves must be kept away from moisture.

Workspace air circulation: Intake air contains pollutants and carbon monoxide that can be hazardous to your health. It’s essential to keep your workspace continuously circulated with clean air.

Workspace humidity: The humidity level in your workspace must be maintained to prevent it from getting too high. To decrease the moisture in the air, try increasing air circulation in the workspace, operating your compressor longer, using a peripheral crankcase heater, or adding a dryer to your compressor.

Before using a compressor, check the critical components to ensure your machine is working correctly. Create an air compressor safety checklist to keep track of all the various elements to look out for, as each of these is significant to maintain a healthy machine and operate it safely.

Oil level: It’s essential to make sure the machine has an appropriate amount of oil. Using a compressor without an adequate amount of oil can lead to costly repairs or replacements. If your compressor needs more oil, add oil to the reservoir but be careful not to overfill it.

Fuel level: To run an air compressor, you need enough fuel. Do not refuel your compressor when it is on or has been shut off for only a short amount of time. You should only conduct refuels and oil changes when the machine is fully cooled.

Air connection: Before turning on your compressor, ensure it is securely connected to the air source. If the connection is weak or loose, the compressor may not perform as expected, or parts could disconnect. These could potentially lead to injury.

Outlets: Ensure your air compressor is only used with outlets that have proper grounding. If you plug an air compressor into an incorrectly grounded outlet, it could damage the machine’s electrical circuitry and potentially cause a fire.

There are also air compressor safety tips and procedures for specific parts of a compressor. Three components include pressure regulation devices, air receivers, and distribution lines. Each is significant to maintain a healthy machine and operation.

Valves: Ensure the safety valves on your air tank are set to at least 10% or 15 psi above the operating compressor pressure but never higher than the air receiver’s working pressure limit.

Air intake: The compressor should only intake air from clean or outdoor sources. This can be accomplished by placing a filter or screen at the valve to keep the intake air clean.

Operators should take precautions while operating air compressors, making sure to always remain in control of compressor units. Standing at surface level at a safe distance from the unit is crucial as well as keeping your hands, clothes, and hair away from the air nozzle and tools.

Be sure to wear the proper safety gear for the job. Personal protective equipment to consider while operating machines include goggles, face masks, rubber or leather gloves, steel-toed shoes, and leather or PVC aprons. Cover any part of the body that is at risk of encountering compressed air or flying particles.

To prevent any safety issues, keep an eye out for potential hazards while using an air compressor. Once you start your operation, check the following items consistently:

Surroundings: As an operator, you must manage the safety of yourself and the other workers by keeping the surrounding area safe. Make sure all hoses, cables, and wires are tucked away where no one can trip.

Voltage: Pay attention to your air compressor voltage. If repairs are needed, power down the machine and lock or tag out all power sources to release pressure from the compressor. Indoor compressors need to be kept inside as outdoor conditions can cause electrical problems.

Air inlet: At an air inlet, the air that goes in should be clean and free of moisture. It should not exceed the maximum recommended pressure. If the maximum pressure is surpassed, it could cause various dangers such as cracks, undue velocity, faulty pressure, or output torque.

FS-Curtis offers an array of machines and parts for a variety of industries, with each top-of-the-line product able to handle any operation safely with the utmost ease at maximum efficiency. Everyone who shops with us receives support from authorized partners and industry-leading warranties on select compressor products.

(a) All safety and relief valves for use on pressure vessels or piping systems shall be designed to meet the protection and service requirements for which they are intended and shall be set to relieve at a pressure which does not exceed the “maximum allowable working pressure” of the pressure vessel or piping system. Relief valves are not required to have huddling chambers for other than steam service. In addition, safety valves used on vessels in which steam is generated shall meet § 52.01-120 of this subchapter except § 52.01-120(a)(9). For steam service below 206 kPa (30 psig), bodies of safety valves may be made of cast iron. Safety relief valves used in liquefied compressed gas service shall meet subpart 162.017 or 162.018 in subchapter Q (Specifications) of this chapter as appropriate.

(b) Pilot-valve control or other indirect operation of safety valves is not permitted unless the design is such that the main unloading valve will open automatically at not over the set pressure and will discharge its full rated capacity if some essential part of the pilot or auxiliary device should fail. All other safety and relief valves shall be of the direct spring loaded type.

(c) Safety and relief valves for steam or air service shall be provided with a substantial lifting device so that the disk can be lifted from its seat when the pressure in the vessel is 75 percent of that at which the valve is set to blow.

(d) Safety and relief valves for service other than steam and air need not be provided with a lifting device although a lifting device is desirable if the vapors are such that their release will not create a hazard.

(e) If the design of a safety or relief valve is such that liquid can collect on the discharge side of the disk, the valve shall be equipped with a drain at the lowest point where liquid can collect (for installation, see UG-134 of section VIII of section VIII of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (incorporated by reference; see 46 CFR 54.01-1).

(f) Cast iron may be employed in the construction of relief valves for pressures not exceeding 125 pounds per square inch and temperatures not exceeding 450 °F. Seats or disks of cast iron are prohibited.

(g) The spring in a relief valve in service for pressures up to and including 250 pounds per square inch shall not be reset for any pressure more than 10 percent above or 10 percent below that for which the relief valve is marked. For higher pressures, the spring shall not be reset for any pressure more than 5 percent above or 5 percent below that for which the relief valve is marked.

(h) The rated relieving capacity of safety and relief valves for use on pressure vessels shall be based on actual flow test data and the capacity shall be certified by the manufacturer in accordance with one of the following:

(2) 110 percent of the valve set pressure for valves rated in accordance with UG-131 of section VIII of section VIII of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code.