One of the least understood uses of compressed air is for breathing air supplied to air respirators to reduce exposure to airborne contaminants present in hostile industrial environments.

Breathing air testing is dependent upon the application

Breathing air must be tested at least every 3 months according to Government health and safety guidelines, however more frequently if the local situation demands it – HSE guideline document Respiratory Equipment at Work (HSG53). Employers have a duty of care to ensure that the breathing air they supply to their employees is safe to breathe, breathing air testing is necessary at regular intervals. A breathing air test typically checks the level of oxygen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, water vapour, oil and odour in the air. There are systems that constantly monitor the level of all these in real time,

What factors can affect the quality of air and frequency of testing?

There are numerous industrial applications where compressed air is used for breathing.  Whether the user is sand blasting a steel railway bridge, and open to external influences, like wind, rain etc. Or spraying parts in a factory spray booth where the elements are controlled. The frequency of usage of the equipment is also a key factor. Is it used daily or on a project basis? This is why it should be incorporated into your workplace risk assessment and updated regularly to reflect results from ongoing breathing-air tests to maintain a robust control system.

Download the BCAS 'Breathing Air' data sheet

Risk assessments, legislation and a duty of care

The frequency of testing is the responsibility of the employer and needs to comply with local legislation but also factor in the risk based upon the specific application or task, the frequency of use and the environment where it is being used. The provision of breathing air for a work related task is controlled by certain legal requirements, and the BCAS 'Breathing Air' data sheet outlines the key governance and regulatory requirements. But there are an infinite number of criteria impacting on the processes which are more or less open to interpretation.

Cambs Compressors breathing air testing – support and advice

Cambs Compressors understand the complexities of breathing air testing, and can advise on the frequency of testing and other best practices to ensure safe breathing air. Our client base is broad and it’s unlikely you will present a situation or environment outside our experience. Which is why we can provide you with a wider appraisal of your application or process.