How to avoid contaminated breathing air in the workplace

31 January, 2020

The importance of testing

Within a purified compressed air supply network, it is essential to carry out air quality tests to ensure that the control measures put in place are delivering the air quality required. In the UK, EN12021 advises that samples should be taken and analysed at least every three months or more frequently if there has been a change in, or any concerns relating to, the production process.

In the HSE guideline document Respiratory Equipment at Work (HSG53) it states the frequency of such tests should be based on a risk assessment, should take place at least every three months and more often when the quality of air cannot be assured to these levels.

For mobile breathing-air compressors in the UK, COSHH stipulates that the employer should ensure that, wherever a compressor is located, the quality of air it supplies is not compromised by nearby contaminants. It strongly recommends that for mobile compressors the air quality is tested whenever the unit is first moved into a new position or if prevailing wind conditions change.

The final decision on frequency of tests is the responsibility of the employer and needs to not only reflect local legislation but also the task and frequency of use. It should be incorporated into risk assessments and updated regularly to reflect results from ongoing breathing air tests in order to maintain a robust control system.

EN12021:2014 is now the standard to indicate contaminant levels for breathing air both in the UK and in the EU expressed as “in any event all contaminants shall be kept to as low a level as possible and shall be below the national exposure limit”.

www.atlascopco.com/en-uk/compressors