Breathing air lines are air-fed respiratory protective
equipment (RPE) worn by employees undertaking specific tasks in
hazardous atmospheres. These typically include:

• Spraying of paints
• Spraying of wood/metal lacquers or glues
• High dust production processes e.g. powder painting, decanting of powders etc
• Working in confined spaces with hazardous atmospheres
• Processes that use toxic gases or asphyxiates
• For use in case of emergencies i.e. spillages

The air often originates from the factories general
compressor and is passed through a special filter before reaching the
operator. It is imperative that this air is tested as to its quality.
The operators are breathing in this air directly and would therefore be
exposed to any impurities entrained or resident in the compressed air
system.

Each test is carried out in accordance with COSHH Reg
9(3) and BS EN 529:2005: ‘Respiratory Protective Devices –
Recommendations for Selection, Use, Care and Maintenance – Guidance
Document’ and with BS EN 12021 ‘Compressed Air for Breathing Apparatus’.

It involves the testing of the air supply for specific toxic gases and other physical parameters. These include:

• Carbon monoxide
• Carbon dioxide
• Oil mist
• Water vapour
• Odour
• Total particulates
• Air flow
• Temperature 

We will also identify and test for any other
contaminants which could possibly become entrained into the airline via
the compressor e.g. Nitrous fumes in car body repair shops, or solvent
vapours from coating or glass reinforced plastic layup (GRP).

Under the current COSHH Regulations, filter units are
required to be tested at quarterly intervals (every 3 months) and more
frequently when the quality of the air cannot be assured.

SRG can undertake the full range tests necessary
and will provide you with a full professional report describing the
testing and highlighting non-compliances where appropriate. We will also
recommend remedial action where necessary.