Guidelines for Health and Safety on Board Small Fishing Boats

Some smaller vessels have the luxury of a compressed air system onboard. These are often “ off the shelf” units from the local hardware shop.

All compressed air systems have a pressurised bottle which contains the high pressure air. These must be kept in excellent condition. Some housekeeping notes are given below.

Safety points

• Always wear safety glasses when you are using compressed air.
• If you use compressed air to dry something, never point the hose directly at the object you are drying.
• Make sure whatever the compressed air is being used on, is secure.
• Never use compressed air as an air supply for breathing.
• Never use air in the vicinity of hot work (welding, gas cutting).
• Do not use compressed air to clean or dry clothing while you are still wearing it.

Maintenance Points

• Air storage bottles must be kept in a clean and dry compartment.
• The paint coating on the bottle must be kept in good condition.
• Fittings, gauges, valves and relief valves must be kept in good condition with regular maintenance.
• Hoses used on portable air equipment must be regularly checked for damage and replaced if found.
• Air Bottles must be rigidly secured to the vessel.
• Air Bottles have test dates so must be regularly tested.