Science lab Compressed air 1

[DDC]

I have been looking for safety guidelines for the air pressure setting in a college chemistry laboratory.
We have Vacuum, Natural Gas, Water, and Clean dry air outlets available.
I have checked OSHA 29 but all that is addressed is gas cylinders.
Beginning to think that there is no actual guidelines. Currently using 45 psig.

Any help appreciated - link to web site or safety information.

Charlie

 

[arto]

Maybe look at ASME B31.9 "Building Services Piping?"


900.1.2 sez:

"This Code applies to the following building
services, except as excluded in para. 900.1.3:
(1) water and anti-freeze solutions for heating and
cooling
(2) condensing water
(3) steam or other condensate
(4) other nontoxic liquids
(5) steam
(6) vacuum
(7) compressed air
(8) other nontoxic, nonflammable gases
(9) combustible liquids including fuel oil"


check your local code though:
par 900: "The user is cautioned that the local building code
must be observed and adhered to when its requirements
are more stringent than those of this Code. "

 

[chicopee]

I guess it depends on the end use of the compressed air. OSHA 1910 Genreal Industry has guidleine on air cleaning nozzles. Also you have guideline prohibiting the use of compressed air to clean oneself of dirt accumulation or worse yet asbestos accumulation. Equipment using compressed air or other gases will always have safety info. in the operators' manuals.

 

[chicopee]

Also, check the material safety data sheets of these gases for additional safety info.