Pneumatic tools are truly a wonderful invention.
They can drill, hammer, and grind like any other power too. But they’re powered by compressed air instead of electricity.
That tends to make them lighter and easier to handle. It can also make them a more affordable alternative. And if you happen to be working in an environment with flammable hazards, they’re a safer option too.
That doesn’t mean there aren’t any safety concerns when using them, however. In fact, there are a few things you should know before you even connect an air hose to your pneumatic tool.
Pneumatic tools really have three components: an air compressor, an air hose, and an air-powered tool.
The Air Compressor
First, there’s an air compressor. Essentially, it’s a machine that intakes air and stores it at a very high pressure.
An air compressor will typically be attached to an air tank. This allows compressed air to be stored so it can be used while the compressor isn’t actively intaking air or to ensure a steady supply of high-pressure air, even during heavy use.
The Air Hose
Air hoses are the delivery mechanism for compressed air.
The hose itself is typically composed of plastic (PVC and polyurethane) and rubber, which makes it sturdy and flexible. It will be equipped with connectors at both ends, usually made of brass or steel.
Many air hose connectors are designed to allow users to quickly swap tools while using the same hose. Most hoses can be disconnected by pulling down on the coupler, and then reconnected by pushing a compatible plug into the coupler.
The Pneumatic Tool
Finally, the pneumatic tool itself.
It will look like an ordinary power tool, except it has an air hose connector, usually at the base of the handle.
It uses the high-pressure air supplied by the compressor to do its thing – like drilling or spraying. Because of the high level of air pressure, it can do this with a shocking amount of power. Many jackhammers are pneumatic, just to give you an idea of how much force can be generated by compressed air.
Other than being air-powered, pneumatic tools don’t have a whole lot in common with each other. They range from paint sprayers to nail guns and can be used in a wide variety of jobs and applications.
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Alright, now that we’ve gone over the major components involved in using pneumatic tools, let’s talk about how to use them safely.
Keep the Tools Clean and Well Maintained
Debris or gunk that builds up in the inner workings of a pneumatic tool could obstruct the air flow and keep it from working as intended.
This matters, because you’re more likely to injure yourself using a tool that doesn’t work well. Using more physical force to make up for the tool being too weak can also put a lot of strain on your body, which can lead to a muscle injury. So make sure you clean and inspect the tool regularly to keep it in tip top shape.
Only Use Attachments That Are Approved by the Manufacturer
Just because an attachment fits, doesn’t mean it should.
Using connectors that aren’t fully compatible could compromise the air flow, which can be a safety risk.
Trying to fit a drill bit or a grinding head meant for another tool is also a bad idea. That’s true even if they’re from the same brand. If the attachment is designed for electric tools and not pneumatic ones, it might not fit securely enough to use safely.
Stick to the intended attachments and contact the manufacturer if you’re not sure which are compatible.
Compensate for the Weight of the Tool
Pneumatic tools tend to be lighter than other types of power tools, so you will need to take that into account when using them.
Experienced workers rely a lot on muscle memory. But when a new tool has a completely different feel, that muscle memory can throw you off.
If you’re used to an electric drill that has a heavy battery attached at the base, a pneumatic drill will be an adjustment. So take your time. Go slowly at first. Let yourself become familiar with the weight before picking up the pace.
How to Safely Handle the Air Hose
When using pneumatic tools, you need to be mindful of the air hose. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Make sure the hose you’re using has a minimum pressure rating of 1035 kPa
- Inspect the hose at the start of each shift – replace it immediately if it is damaged or defective
- Clear out the hose (point it away from you and send air through it) before connecting it to your tools
- Never carry a tool by holding the air hose that’s connected to it
- Be mindful of where your hose is at all times (move it if it could trip a coworker or get in someone’s way)
Working Safely Around an Air Compressor
The air compressor that powers your pneumatic tools also introduces hazards of its own. To ensure your safety, remember to:
- Wear hearing protection if you’re working near a noisy air compressor
- Locate the shut off valve in case anything goes wrong and you need to quickly turn off the compressor
- Never adjust or unhook air hoses from the compressor while it’s running
Get the Job Done Safely
In this article, we focused on tips that are specific to using tools powered by compressed air. But they’re not the only safety guidelines you’ll have to follow.
Even though their inner workings are different than electric tools, pneumatic tools are still power tools. You’ll have to adhere all the usual safety procedures and wear the PPE needed for the type of tool you’re using.
If you do, you’ll be able to get the job done without getting hurt or putting yourself at risk.
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