All pneumatic equipment operates under air compressors. The air compressor basically compresses a given amount air to a specific pressure. Consumers can use this pressurized air to power certain equipment like pneumatic buffers, jackhammers, sanders and nail guns.There are advantages and disadvantages in requiring air compressors to operate. The obvious disadvantage with air compressors is that they can be quite heavy and bulky. An advantage is that they make pneumatic tools portable since a compressed air tank can be taken almost anywhere.
Proper hosing is a critical component of any pneumatic system. According to the Canada Center for Occupational Health and Safety, only hosing that is resistant to crushing and abrasion should be used in pneumatics. Using hosing that is not specifically rated to be operated under the pressures it will be used under poses a safety risk to anyone near the pneumatic equipment.
Pneumatic equipment requires regular maintenance. Sources at American Pneumatic Tools recommend that pneumatic equipment owners regularly inspect and maintain their pneumatic equipment to maintain a safe work environment while the equipment is in use. Monster Guide claims that operating pneumatic equipment can be messy because a lot of lubrication and oil are needed to keep them operating smoothly. Oil levels should always be kept at manufacturer-recommended levels.
Pneumatic tool operators should employ hearing protection while operating most types of pneumatic tools to avoid injuries to the ears, according to The Tool Hut. Safety glasses should be worn to avoid damage to the eye, according to Ask the Builder. When operating pneumatic equipment produces excessive dust, it is recommended that the operator employ a dust mask or respirator. Pneumatic staple gun operators may choose to wear steel-toe boots to prevent injury to the feet and toes.
The oil and lubricant used in pneumatic equipment can spit out around the operator's workspace, which can make for an unsafe environment. Shards of material may fly off a workpiece while it is being operated under pneumatic equipment. In cases where pneumatic equipment is going to be operated near bystanders, protective shields can be put in place to protect the bystanders. Signs should be posted to inform the public that they are near active pneumatic equipment.