Industrial Safety · 2–5 min toolbox talk
Safe Use of Compressed Air for Cleaning
A safety talk about preventing eye injury, pressure hazards, and debris strikes when using compressed air for cleaning.
Use this printed script for your tailgate or toolbox talk. Read through the hazards, script, and questions with your crew.
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“Safe Use of Compressed Air for Cleaning”
Key Hazards
- Debris propelled at high speed
- Air injection injuries
- Noise exposure
2–3 Minute Talk Script
Safe use of compressed air for cleaning is important for manufacturing workers, mechanics, and maintenance teams. Compressed air can propel debris with great force.
Workers should never use compressed air directly on skin or clothing. Pressurized air can penetrate the skin and cause serious injury.
Different cleaning tasks require different pressures. Low-pressure nozzles are safer for removing dust, while high-pressure cleaning must be tightly controlled.
Wearing eye and face protection prevents injuries from airborne debris.
Safety Reminders
- Use appropriate pressure for cleaning.
- Never direct compressed air at yourself or others.
- Wear eye and face protection.
- Control debris direction to avoid striking others.
Ask the Crew
- Do we need lower-pressure nozzles today?
- Is anyone working nearby who could be struck by debris?