If you’re in the air industry you’ll have heard the name OSHA thrown around in conversation.
You may have heard of OSHA but do you know what the OSHA Standards actually are and how violations of them can have dire consequences on a business?
What is OSHA?
In 1970 The Occupational Safety and Health Act (known as The OSH Act) was passed to prevent death or serious harm being caused at work. This law led to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (known as OSHA) being created to set and enforce workplace health & safety standards.
What are OSHA Standards?
OSHA Standards are legal rules dictating the methods that employers must follow to ensure worker protection. If these standards are violated or not met OSHA issues citations with deadlines and hefty fines.
What is OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.134?
Breathing air systems must be designed to meet OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.134(i)(1).
This standard states that “Compressed breathing air shall meet at least the requirements for Grade D breathing air described in ANSI/Compressed Gas Association Commodity Specification for Air, G-7.1-1989, to include:
- Oxygen content (v/v) of 19.5% - 23.5%;
- Hydrocarbon (condensed) content of 5 milligrams per cubic meter of air or less;
- Carbon monoxide (CO) content of 10 parts per million (ppm) or less;
- Carbon dioxide (CO2) content of 1,000 ppm or less;
- Lack of noticeable odor”
Complying with OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.134 Requirements for Grade D Breathing Air
When the proper procedures are implemented and processes are followed, complying with OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.134 is easy to do.
Air Filtration Systems
The installation of an air filtration system controls contaminants being exposed to workers in supplied breathing air. The most commonly found contaminants in compressed air are carbon monoxide, water and water vapor, oil or oil mist & solids.
All of these can cause harm to workers when breathed in, so monitoring your system is vital.
CO Monitotoring Systems
CO monitoring is extremely important. CO compressed airline monitors are designed to help meet OSHA requirements for Grade D breathing air. These systems are normally mounted, either on a mounting plate or directly on a wall in an area where contamination is likely to occur.
Worker Protection and Safety Systems
OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.134 requires that measures must be taken to protect workers where the risk of air contamination exists. These measures include proper training of employees who will be dealing with compressed air.
Employers often employ safeguards to ensure that OSHA standards are met by taking additional safety measures that ensure equipment can’t be tampered with. We’re experienced at upgrading systems and helping you create a safe environment. Book a site visit so we can help you determine your next steps in getting up to standard: 925.667.3400/sales@cdasystems.com.