Did you know that the air you breathe while working could harm your health? The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set standards for industries that use compressed air.
OSHA reports that 8 hour Time Weighted Average (TWA) exposure limit for breathing compressed air is 49 million parts per million (ppm). According to NIOSH, the Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health Concentration (IDLH) for compressor room air is 134 ppm. Many factors can contribute to these air quality levels.
Yet, companies that perform compressed air and environmental air testing can minimize the risks associated with poor air quality. If you work in an industry that uses compressed air, you should have a process for compressed breathing air quality testing. By meeting OSHA general industry breathing standards, you can ensure the safety of your workers and avoid costly fines.
What Is the Risk Of a Compressed Gas?
Many hazards are associated with compressed gases, including oxygen displacement, explosions, fire, and toxic gas exposures. It is vital to follow the proper precautions to handle compressed gas. One of the best ways to control these hazards is by formulating an air testing process.
Why Test Air Quality?
There are many reasons why you should test the quality of your compressed air. The most important reason is to ensure the safety of your workers. If the air quality is poor, it can lead to serious health problems such as asphyxiation, chemical pneumonitis, and death.
OSHA reports several hundred cases of worker hospitalization each year and dozens of deaths due to poor air quality.
Another reason to test air quality is to avoid costly fines. If you are found in violation of OSHA standards, you could be facing severe penalties. Not only that, but a bad reputation could also lead to a loss in business.
How to Conduct Compressed Gas and Indoor Air Testing
So how do you know if your air is up to par? The best way to find out is to have it tested by a professional company. First, you want to find a company specializing in compressed gas and indoor air testing.
Companies that use state-of-the-art equipment to test for contaminants such as asbestos, formaldehyde, mold, bacteria, and more are excellent choices for performing the test. Once the testing is complete, the company you choose will provide you with a detailed report of its findings.
For example, Phase Associates can work with you to develop a plan to improve your air quality and help you avoid any potential problems down the road. You also want to hire an experienced company that can provide examples of their work and how they help other companies.
Compressed Breathing Air Quality Testing is Important!
It’s clear to see that creating a compressed breathing air quality testing process is vital to your business. Staying in compliance with OSHA general industry breathing standards keeps your business protected. If you are unsure about what is needed to stay in compliance, don’t wait until it’s too late.
Conduct compressed air and environmental air testing today! Contact us today to learn more about how we can help ensure the safety of your workers and avoid costly penalties!
Our testing services cover the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, New York, Maryland, Delaware, Georgia and Virginia.