High-pressure equipment can be found in all kinds of environments, from our home kitchen to industrial plants and manufacturing facilities. Pressure systems are an essential component of many processes, but they also have the potential to be hazardous – and even lethal – if used incorrectly. This guide covers essential safety tips for using high-pressure equipment.
What Do We Mean by ‘Pressure Systems’?
Pressure systems are any piece of equipment or closed in which air or liquid is compressed at a pressure significantly higher than normal atmospheric pressure.
Examples of pressure systems and high-pressure equipment include:
- Boilers
- Pressure cookers
- Autoclaves
- Compressed air systems
- Heat exchangers
- Pipework
- Hoses
- Steam coffee machines
- Gas storage tanks
When things go wrong with these kinds of equipment, the consequences can be disastrous to anyone in the vicinity – and even fatal. That’s why when working with pressure systems, safety should be the top priority.
Here’s how to work safely with high-pressure equipment.
Understanding How the Equipment Works and Maintaining It
Before you work with any high-pressure equipment, you should be clear that you understand exactly how it works. This means you need to know its exact functions and capabilities, as well as any in-built safety features such as pressure sensors or auto cut-offs. Familiarise yourself with the manufacturer’s recommendations and user manual and take note of any safety warnings or labels on the equipment.
If you’re in any doubt about how to use the equipment, stop and get help from someone more experienced.
You should never use high-pressure equipment that hasn’t been maintained or shows signs of damage. Pressure systems require regular maintenance for both performance and safety reasons and should be subject to regular and thorough inspections and a cleaning schedule in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Any worn or damaged parts should be repaired or replaced and any leaks or cracks reported. If you have concerns about the condition of the equipment, check the maintenance schedule to see when it was last inspected.
Following Procedures
When working with high-pressure equipment you should follow standard procedures and protocols. This applies whether you are operating the equipment, carrying out maintenance, repairs or adjustments or cleaning the equipment.
Your organization will have set procedures in place for all these activities and these will include clear steps about any checks that should be undertaken before you use the equipment such as pressure tests and safety valves.
If any of your pre-use checks suggest anomalies with the equipment then you should report these and stop working with the equipment until the issue has been resolved.
Don’t be tempted to ignore, bypass or modify any steps in the operation procedure as doing so can put you and others at serious risk of harm.
Wearing Protection
Working with certain types of high-pressure equipment will require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). The type of equipment you’re working with and the pressures involved will dictate what kind of PPE is most appropriate. This might include any or all of the following:
- Gloves
- Helmets
- Coveralls
- Safety goggles
- Ear plugs
You should always check your PPE before wearing it to make sure it isn’t damaged and that it fits you well. PPE shouldn’t restrict your movement, visibility or hearing to the extent that you’re unable to work safely.
