THE BRITISH Compressed Society (BCAS) has developed the UK’s first, independent performance verification programme for 50 Hz rotary compressors in the European market.

Buyers rely heavily on manufacturer datasheets to make informed purchasing decisions, but comparing performance data from different brands can be a complex task. Working with its manufacturer members, the programme, which is supported with a new website, produces datasheets which provide a uniform and commercially practical means of comparing compressor performance claims during the specification and buying processes.  

This ensures that all compressors under consideration are measured using the same standards, allowing buyers to compare true performance across brands, including differences in power rating, pressure and energy consumption.

The importance of independent verification

Independent verification at BCAS’s third-party testing laboratory is the cornerstone of the programme and validates the information published by each manufacturer.  Verified data is, by its nature, trustworthy and can be of particular benefit when a company is implementing energy efficiency programmes and needs to report on its carbon reduction efforts with confidence.

Compressed air systems involve multiple variables including kilowatt rating, flow rate, pressure, duty cycle and energy consumption to name a few. Standardised information helps buyers reduce technical complexity and reach a decision faster, without a protracted process of liaising with multiple vendors.

How the scheme works

Participating companies report compressor performance based on the internationally recognised ISO1217:2009 standard for compressors. 

Datasheets for each of these machines is available on BCAS’s new website (https://performance.bcas.org.uk), helping buyers to compare models from different brands by kW size and by fixed or variable speed.

On a regular basis, BCAS selects, at random, machine samples to be sent to its laboratory in the UK. Here, each compressor is tested rigorously to verify that it meets the manufacturer’s published performance ratings.

Once a machine has passed, the participant may use the official verification programme badge on all qualifying machines.  If a test unit does not pass, the manufacturer has the option to have a second unit tested, which has also been previously chosen by BCAS.  If this unit also fails, the manufacturer must re-rate the unit based on the test results within 30 days.

"Standardised, verified data helps buyers reduce technical complexity and reach a decision faster, without a protracted process of liaising with multiple vendors," said Ashley Quarterman, executive director at BCAS.

"In many industries, compressed air is a critical utility. If a system fails or underperforms, production can be impacted significantly. Buyers need to act fast to identify and specify a suitable replacement or upgrade to avoid costly downtime. Having the ability to compare different machines quickly and easily, whether assessing different brands or even different models from the same manufacturer, can really pay dividends."

To view the current set of datasheets available, visit the new website at performance.bcas.org.uk.

For more information: 

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: 0207 935 2464

Frances Marsh, society administrator at the British Compressed Air Society (BCAS) is working with members to encourage them to sign up to the Armed Forces Covenant - a new commitment from the Society and its members to those who have served. 

The Covenant is a commitment from BCAS and its members to the Armed Forces Community. It acknowledges and understands that the armed forces, and their families, should be treated with fairness and respect in the communities, economy and society they serve with their lives.

Providing meaningful support to ex-military personnel​

BCAS signed the covenant in a ceremony held in April this year at Blighmont Reserve Centre in Southampton, and a number of its members have already followed suit.  

Through its Armed Forces Working Group, the Society aims to provide meaningful support to ex-military personnel as they transition to a career in civilian life. 

The compressed air industry is diverse. It requires specific technical and engineering skills to specify, commission and maintain equipment. It also offers a broad range of other career opportunities in sales and customer service, logistics and administration to name a few.   

Encouraging veterans to consider the compressed air industry

"We know that military experience will equip individuals with many of these skills that are in demand in our sector. Through our working group, we hope to encourage more veterans to consider a career in the compressed air industry," Marsh explained.

"In return, we want to play our part in helping veterans as they transition into a role in civilian life, by offering fulfilling career opportunities; a transition which can be difficult for many. We are therefore encouraging all our members, and the wider compressed air community to consider the benefits that employing military personnel could bring to their business."

To learn more about BCAS’s commitment to the Armed Forces, visit the company’s website at armedforces.bcas.org.uk

To find out more about the Armed Forces Covenant, visit www.armedforcescovenant.gov.uk

A career in the compressed air industry: An Army veteran’s perspective

After 14 years in the Army, Jason Chapman found settling into civilian work hard. With six jobs in the first 12 months, the Royal Engineer veteran, now turned business development manager for Atlas Copco, explains how the compressed air industry finally helped him feel at home.

When the new Labour Government came into power in May 2024, like every trade association, we were braced for a period of change.

A change in administration always brings with it a certain element of review, especially in the area of standards and legislation.

Navigating a New Political Landscape

For example, despite leaving the EU, we are still seeing many UK regulations updated to align with changes to EU regulations, even though this is no longer mandatory. This is certainly the case with the issue of CE Marking, which you can read more about on page xx and serves as a good example of European regulation continuing to be adapted for the GB market.  

We're waiting with interest to see the outcome of the Government's call for evidence, which closes on the 20 October. But it is encouraging that departments including the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) frequently turn to trade associations for input. Working with our members we can gather genuine input and feedback, helping to lobby for better outcomes for the industry, and its end-users as a whole.

Noise Regulations: Member Input in Action

A good example of this in practice is with the changes to the outdoor noise regulations. Thanks to member input, these accounted for the requirements placed on mobile compressed air equipment, mandating a number of practical and viable adjustments.

It's not just legislation that has been impacted. Our members and the wider industry were naturally concerned when the changes to the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) were first announced, requiring engineers to prove professional competency in order to work on construction and new build sites.

Our training and development team were quick to respond with the launch of our NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Installation and Commissioning - an industry first that enables experienced compressed air technicians to prove their professional skills and gain a recognised qualification.

Raising the Bar on Skills and Certification

The resulting Compressed Air Pathway is recognised by the Building Engineering and Services Association as a formal industry standard, including Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) recognition. It is designed so that learners can demonstrate their existing knowledge and credentials, without requiring additional training; a huge benefit for the industry which is already formed of many highly skilled engineers that have years of experience of installing and maintaining compressed air systems.

Elsewhere, changes are on the horizon for apprenticeships, and the BCAS training and development team are keeping an active eye on the Government's new foundation apprenticeships.

Apprenticeships Evolve to Meet Tomorrow’s Needs

From August 2025, foundation apprenticeships were launched in England, including a brand-new pathway for Engineering & Manufacturing. These Level 2 programmes are designed for 16-19-year-olds and typically delivered in 8 months. They combine classroom learning with real-world work experience and are already proving their worth in Scotland, where students can learn practical skills while still at school. We are already exploring the ways in which our existing Compressed Air and Vacuum Technician apprenticeship could be adapted to suit this model in England.

These are supported by changes to apprenticeship funding rules, including simplified off-the-job training hours, stronger recognition of prior learning and flexibility around English and maths qualifications. The changes are designed to increase flexibility for employers and support entry-level routes, particularly in engineering and manufacturing which continue to struggle with skills' shortages.

Market Headwinds

The pressures on the manufacturing sector continue to be felt by our members and between the period from 2021 to the end of 2024, the total number of compressors sold in the UK market has contracted by around 29% (9703 in 2021 versus 6934 in 2024).

This downward trend is certainly worthy of note and while there is no specific analysis, it is probable that rising employer costs, such as the increase in National Insurance contributions and rising minimum wages alongside increased raw material and energy costs are impacting on capital expenditure budgets.

Conversely, volume sales year on year remain very steady, with 569 units sold to the end of Q2 2025 (June) compared to 571 for the same period in 2024, although it would appear that the average kilowatt size of compressors has reduced this year.

The final area of change comes from the BCAS team itself, which has doubled in size in the past year. On the technical standards side, Steve Downham joined Tim Preece as our second technical officer, and we have welcomed both Terry Collier and Fay Hutchinson to our training and development team.

In addition, the BCAS board continues to support the interests and concerns of air users, with continued broad participation from both manufacturer and distributor members.

Ashley Quarterman is executive director at the British Compressed Air Society 

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: 0207 935 2464

THE BRITISH Compressed Air Society (BCAS) has appointed Steve Downham to further expand its technical team, working alongside Tim Preece as technical officer.

Boosting Vacuum Sector Support

"It’s a pleasure to join the BCAS team and to use my engineering knowledge to help advise members. I’m planning to meet with lots of members and end users over the coming months, using my skills and experience in the vacuum sector to provide timely and practical advice," said Downham.

As a chartered mechanical engineer with a PhD that researched centrifugal pump systems, Downham is no stranger to the world of vacuum technology. For more than 26 years, he has held engineering positions at Edwards Vacuum, latterly as technical lead for new product innovation and research and development.

This wealth of engineering knowledge will be a very welcome addition to the Society’s existing technical capabilities, particularly in supporting vacuum technology members and those who are keen to diversify their offer outside of traditional compressed air applications.

Navigating Legislation and Compliance

Preece will continue to be instrumental in developing standards and legislation and lobbying for the best outcomes for BCAS members.  In partnership, Downham will provide guidance on how members can apply and deliver against the requirements set.

He will also play an integral role in the Society’s Vacuum committee, as well as working with the training and development team to develop new training courses for members and end users.

"We send a very warm welcome to Steve. He has a wealth of knowledge in the vacuum and broader engineering sectors, which will help to strengthen our technical expertise further still," stated Ashley Quartermann, BCAS executive director.

"In an ever-changing legislative landscape, it is vital that trade associations remain abreast of new requirements as well as lobbying for the best outcomes for their members and end users. Steve will play an important advisory role in many of these areas of best practice and improved performance."

For more information:

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: +44 (0) 207 935 2464

THE BRITISH Compressed Air Society (BCAS) has signed the Armed Forces Covenant in a ceremony held at Blighmont Reserve Centre in Southampton, marking a new commitment from the industry to those who have served.

The Covenant is a commitment from BCAS and its members to the Armed Forces Community. It acknowledges and understands that the armed forces, and their families, should be treated with fairness and respect in the communities, economy and society they serve with their lives.

Skills That Translate

Through its Armed Forces Working Group, the Society aims to provide meaningful support to ex-military personnel as they transition to a career in civilian life. 

"The compressed air industry is diverse. It requires specific technical and engineering skills to specify, commission and maintain equipment. It also offers a broad range of other career opportunities in sales and customer service, logistics and administration to name a few," explained BCAS executive director Ashley Quarterman.   

"We recognise that military experience will equip individuals with many of these skills that are in demand in our sector. Through our working group, we hope to encourage more veterans to consider a career in the compressed air industry.

"In return, we want to play our part in helping veterans as they transition into a role in civilian life, by offering fulfilling career opportunities; a transition which can be difficult for many.  We are therefore encouraging all our members, and the wider compressed air community to consider the benefits that employing military personnel could bring to their business."

Fulfilling Careers Beyond Service

BCAS has a number of members with military experience, such as RAF Veteran, James Shaw, MD of JDS Compressors. "My role as a weapons technician was high intensity, and you could never predict what might happen next. We were used to reacting quickly and solving problems. I enjoyed that challenge and, in many ways, we face the same challenges in the compressed air industry," he stated. "Responding quickly to avoid a compressor breakdown, analysing equipment performance and talking with customers to reach the best outcome. It requires a similar mindset."

Royal Navy Veteran, Nigel Palmer, who is managing director of SCC Air Compressors UK added: "I am proud to be part of the compressed air industry and its commitment to supporting veterans in their ongoing careers. It is an industry where our skills can be used with great impact - whether it's dealing quickly with equipment breakdown, commissioning a new installation or advising customers on new ways to improve efficiency and performance."

Ex Royal Navy Marine engineer and now national sales manager at Atlas Copco, Jason Pollard concluded: "When I left the military, I found that my skills were in demand and could be put to good use in the compressed air industry.  Unlike some of my fellow veterans, who have faced numerous barriers when transitioning to a civilian career, I found the compressed air industry to be very receptive to my skillset."

For more information: 

www.armedforcescovenant.gov.uk

Tel: +44 (0) 207 935 2464

THE BRITISH Compressed Air Society (BCAS) has launched its new NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Installation and Commissioning - an industry first that enables experienced compressed air technicians to prove their professional skills and gain a recognised qualification.

The NVQ was developed in part to address the competency concerns raised by the Construction Leadership Council regarding personnel working on construction sites. The resulting Compressed Air Pathway is recognised by the Building Engineering and Services Association as a formal industry standard, including Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) recognition.

Validating Expertise Without Additional Training

It is designed so that learners can demonstrate their existing knowledge and credentials, without requiring additional training. This gives confidence to end-customers of the engineer's competence, experience and commitment to safe working practices during the installation, commissioning and ongoing maintenance of compressed air systems.

The NVQ comprises mandatory units, which include complying with statutory regulations and organisational safety requirements and using and interpreting engineering data and documentation. Emphasis is also given to working efficiently and effectively in engineering and the handing over of maintenance or installation activities to the customer. 

"The launch of our new NVQ is testament to the significant strides made by the compressed air industry in recent months. We have now developed a recognised qualification which formalises the extensive experience many compressed air engineers already possess," said Terry Collier, BCAS learning and development officer.

"Working with our members and other industry bodies, we are proud to introduce this new Compressed Air Pathway to the industry. Together, we are making meaningful progress in enhancing the skills and qualifications of the industry.

"Not only does it demonstrate the expertise of our highly skilled sector, but it provides end users with additional reassurance that all health and safety and statutory requirements will be met," he continued.

A Collaborative Effort to Elevate Industry Standards

"In addition, we have partnered with an external assessment company, TSW Training, who are well respected within the wider engineering sector.  TSW Training will be responsible for assessing and quality assuring as technicians work towards assessment. This partnership not only ensures that candidates receive the highest standard of assessment but also aligns with the rigorous requirements mandated by the Construction Leadership Council." 

Ashley Quarterman, BCAS Executive Director said that the new NVQ further enhances BCAS' wide portfolio of training courses available to engineers and end-users in the compressed air industry. "It forms part of our continued effort to add further value for our members and their customers and would not have been possible without collective effort from the BCAS team and many of our colleagues and partners across the sector," he concluded.

The NVQ Level 3 Diploma in installation and Commissioning is now available on the BCAS learning management system website and open for applications. Please visit https://elearning.bcas.org.uk/nvq-level-3-diploma-in-installation-and-commissioning/

For more information:

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: +44 (0) 207 935 2464

Working alongside Terry Collier, BCAS’s learning and development officer, the new role will see BCAS further enhance the breadth and range of compressed air and vacuum training courses and approved accreditations available, with particular focus on increasing participation in its compressed air and vacuum technician (CAVT) apprenticeship.

Hutchison has a wealth of training experience, gained in roles both within engineering and the higher education sector. Starting her career in the stainless steel and aluminium sector, she holds a first-class honours degree in business management and a master of business administration (MBA) and has recently completed a level 6 diploma in career guidance and development.

"I am really looking forward to using my skills to help further enhance the training support available to our members. I am already speaking to members about our CAVT apprenticeship and some of the ways we can refine it further through progression routes, as well as being able to advise on the range of bursaries and levy funding that could be available," Hutchison stated.

Of particular benefit to BCAS and its members is Hutchison’s experience gained during her work with higher education institutes. She has held several employer relationship roles, most recently at the University of Greenwich, where she has secured successful industrial work placements for students during their university studies. She has also been actively involved in encouraging businesses to offer degree apprenticeships, using their apprenticeship levy where appropriate to either bring new talent into the business or to upskill existing members of staff.

"The industry is only too aware that recruiting and retaining skilled staff into the compressed air and wider engineering sector is challenging. Offering high-quality training, whether through our apprenticeship scheme or one of our many CPD-approved courses, can help to deliver the next generation of engineers that our sector needs," said Ashley Quarterman, BCAS executive director.

"It is great to welcome Fay to the team and to be able to draw on all her experience in both the industrial and education sectors. She understands how effective learning environments can be created, alongside the pressures faced by employers to continually train their teams and this will be of genuine benefit to our members."

www.bcas.org.uk

FIGURES FROM the recent Employer Skills Survey (2022) from the Department for Education show that the amount spent on training in England has dropped to its lowest ever level.

In the manufacturing sector, there was also a decrease in employers providing training, a drop of six percentage points in 2017 to 54% in 2022 and the sector was one of the establishments most likely to have skills gaps at 19%.

However, there are many employers that are bucking this trend, working with organisations like the British Compressed Air Society (BCAS) to ensure their employees are suitably trained and upskilled.

Indeed, Make UK, the Manufacturers’ Organisation states in its 2030 Skills, Closing the Gap report that "The majority of those who will be working in manufacturing in 2030 are already in the workforce. As such, employers are increasingly focused on upskilling and retraining their existing employees, both to ensure that their technical skills keep pace with changing needs, and to retain that talent in the business over the longer term. This is the key priority for manufacturers over the next decade."

Why learning and development?

We’ll begin by exploring the purpose of learning and development (L&D) activities and how these fit within an organisation's people policies. 

In simple terms, L&D is about ensuring the right people are on board, with the right skills, at the right time. This is a significant challenge for all HR departments and individuals. 

However, BCAS is making positive strides, and working in a sector of professional, highly skilled specialists sets us apart, making this a key benefit of investing in one of our many training courses.

The role of BCAS

BCAS is committed to supporting users of compressed air and its members on this journey. We employ specialists in learning and development as well as technical standards. Some of the current initiatives we are working on with the industry include:

• An employer's guide for apprenticeships: This guide aims to assist organisations from the initial strategic planning phase, through recruitment, and into day-to-day management. It provides templates that organisations can adapt or adopt, all based on best practices.
• Development of new resources focused on compressor energy saving: Launched as the 10% Taskforce, the initiative aims to reduce unnecessary energy wastage from compressed air use by 10%. Eight short modules cover topics such as heat recovery, managing air leaks, and correct specification. These brief, ‘coffee break’ sessions are CPD certified.
• ISO 11011 development: This training, based on the compressed air energy standard is in its final stages, with a planned launch in the coming weeks or months.

Feedback from individuals and businesses is crucial to the effectiveness of L&D. We are updating training materials and developing new initiatives continually. BCAS remains dedicated to helping member organisations achieve the necessary skill levels in the sector, and users of compressed air to be able to upskill their workforce and have access to unbiased information.

Like all businesses, we adapt to the ever-changing external environment and communicate these changes as needed through committee meetings, discussions, and L&D events.

A comprehensive range of training courses

BCAS offers a diverse range of fully online and blended learning courses tailored to fit the convenience of trainees, whether they're learning from the office or at home. These courses are designed to be flexible, accommodating the pace and place that best suits the learner.

Discounts and affordability

Courses start at just £35.00, with additional discounts of up to 25% available for customers of BCAS members, along with free associate membership. To access these benefits, customers need only inform BCAS of their compressed air supplier when booking.

eLearning Courses

• Certificate in Working Safely with Compressed Air (WSWCA): This one-hour course highlights the safety responsibilities of employers and employees, covering the hazards associated with compressed air, the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and safe working practices.
• Certificate in Compressed Air Treatment Technology (CATT): Focused on the origins of contaminants and methods for their removal, this course is relevant for manufacturers, distributors, and anyone requiring clean, dry compressed air systems.
• Certificate in Compressed Air System Technology (CAST): CAST provides a comprehensive overview of compressed air systems, including production, usage, relevant health and safety issues, legislation, and energy efficiency.
• Understanding Breathing Air (BS EN 12021): This one-hour course educates participants on the importance of providing clean breathing air, covering regulations, standards, and legal requirements for the safe provision of breathable air.
• Compressed Air Service Engineer Health and Safety Training: Designed for service engineers, this course integrates various aspects of health and safety related to compressed air systems, ensuring compliance with legislation and efficient equipment operation.

Blended Learning Courses

BCAS’s CPD-approved blended learning courses combine online tutorials with guided learning and assessments led by qualified tutors. This format allows for flexible study, with invigilated exams ensuring comprehension and competence.

• Certificate in Understanding the Pressure Systems’ Safety Regulations (PSSR): This workshop delves into the Pressure Systems’ Safety Regulations, offering insights into the written scheme of examination for compressed air systems.
• Certificate in Understanding ISO8573: The course provides an in-depth understanding of ISO 8573, covering all aspects of compressed air systems for various professionals, including suppliers, consultants, and users.
• Diploma in Compressed Air Management (DipCam): This comprehensive qualification covers the technical aspects of compressed air systems, designed for individuals responsible for installations who seek advanced technical knowledge.
• Certificate in Compressed Air Systems’ Testing and Examinations: This course covers the essential knowledge and skills required for conducting competent examinations of compressed air systems, as required by Regulation 9 of the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations.

BCAS’s training courses are a valuable resource for anyone involved in the compressed air industry, offering a range of qualifications from basic safety to advanced technical management. For more information, visit the BCAS eLearning portal at e-learning.bcas.org.uk or  email [email protected]

For more information:

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: +44 (0) 207 935 2464

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) is requiring proof of competency in CSCS scheme, covering all industrial sectors.  It intends to enforce this from January 2025, using approved apprenticeship schemes to measure competency.

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) is the industry body that is overseeing the work of the compressed air industry.

The skill cards’ situation is exceptionally difficult for everyone in the industry and BCAS understands the pressure that this is placing on organisations. Through numerous meetings and requests for information, the Society continues to lobby for a better outcome.

Obtaining a CSCS card via an apprenticeship

So far, there is one way to achieve a skills’ card for the compressed air sector. That is through the Compressed Air and Vacuum Technician apprenticeship, which was developed by the BCAS members on the Training and Development Committee. Once an employee is on this scheme, they receive a red trainee card. When they qualify, they can then apply for a gold card. 

BCAS has formally objected to this requirement for a full apprenticeship qualification on several grounds, as an apprenticeship may not be suitable for many currently serving engineers in this field. The Society is waiting to present to the panel of experts, where it will be highlighting what it considers to be flaws in this argument.

Working towards a formal qualification

It is the Construction Skills Council’s clear decision that from January 2025 work will not be completed on new construction projects without a skills’ card. To obtain such a card the employee must have an industry-recognised qualification.

BESA oversees the compressed air industry. BCAS has had many meetings with the BESA team to find the best outcome for its members and the wider sector. The society argues that allowing an NVQ to be an alternative qualification for our sector is the best way forward.

We have worked to:

• Demonstrate the value of a standalone extended diploma NVQ for the compressed air industry, as a means of assessment for less experienced staff. This would enable proof of on-the-job skills and on-site/operational training. It would replace the time and resources needed for a full apprenticeship.
• Reinforce that this NVQ already exists for experienced employees, and that BCAS is already developing a second diploma. This NVQ will bring installation, commissioning, and maintenance into one pathway.  This would enable BCAS members to achieve the highest safety (Gold) standard, thereby helping to drive up safety further still in our industry.
• Both diplomas now have a new compressed air pathway which has been accepted by Excellence Award in Learning (EAL), part of the larger Engiunity Group
• Create a win-win situation. Existing employees who have many years’ experience can prove their capability with an on-the-job NVQ assessment. Newer employees may need to undertake an extended diploma.

Next steps

BCAS remains committed to apprenticeships where appropriate and working collaboratively with the Construction Skills’ Council to ensure the safety of all employees. The time importance is critical, and the Society continues to push for a swift resolution.   

Terry Collier is training and development Officer at BCAS

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: 0207 935 2464

Compressed air is a versatile energy source, accounting for approximately 10% of all the energy used by industry and must be handled with care. Although the incidence of injuries related to compressed air systems is relatively low in the UK, compressed air systems can pose significant hazards if not properly maintained or the proper precautions taken. 

Components such as compressors, hoses, pneumatic tools, and electrical connections all have associated risks and the high pressure within these systems can cause serious injuries. Continuous efforts to enhance safety standards and reduce complacency are therefore essential.

Barriers to safety

Research indicates a strong correlation between complacency and workplace incidents. AA research paper headed Identifying Root Causes of Construction Accidents published in 2000 by the Journal of Construction Engineering and Management identified human factors, particularly complacency, as significant contributors to accidents in the construction industry. This underscores the necessity of constant vigilance and strict adherence to safety protocols.

One challenge in promoting a culture of safety is the generational gap in safety perceptions. While younger workers often view new safety measures as standard practice, older employees that have been carrying out their duties for some years may regard them as unnecessary. Bridging this gap is vital for the successful implementation and acceptance of safety protocols.

The importance of compressed air safety

Training and education

Comprehensive training is crucial for all operators working with compressed air systems. Training programs should include detailed instructions on the safe and efficient operation of compressors, awareness of potential hazards, and strategies for risk mitigation.

Air compressor safety tips

• Training: BCAS recommends comprehensive training for all operators, including an understanding of relevant safety standards before operating any equipment.
• Equipment and workspace setup: Operators should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the setup of equipment and workspaces, including the installation of safety devices such as pressure relief valves.
• Pre-operation checks: Sites should standardise regular pre-start safety checks for all components of the compressor system to ensure safe and efficient operation.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including checks of filters, dryers, air receivers, and pipework is vital for extending the life of the system and maintaining air quality.
• Good housekeeping and staff involvement: Compressed air is a valuable resource, and leaks should be addressed promptly. Common sources of wastage include leaks, leaving air-consuming equipment running during breaks, and using compressed air unnecessarily for cleaning benches and equipment.  Encouraging staff to report and identify instances of wasted air usage is critical. 

Conclusion

Safety is an ongoing commitment in any workplace. Implementing thorough training and safety measures for compressed air systems is essential to protect workers, prevent accidents, and ensure equipment longevity. 

To find out more about the Certificate in Working Safely with Compressed Air course from BCAS, please visit: tinyurl.com/5z9e8ppm

Terry Collier is training and development officer at BCAS

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: 0207 935 2464