Exploring Air Supply Solutions for Mobile Safety Showers: A Guide for Engineers and Purchasing Agents

Introduction

When it comes to ensuring the safety of your facility or job site, especially in environments where the risk of chemical exposure is a concern, safety showers are non-negotiable. But what often puzzles engineers and purchasing agents alike is the question of powering these essential devices. The topic of whether to rent an air cylinder for your safety showers can be a tricky one. Luckily, I’m here to break it down for you, to help you navigate your options with ease.

Do You Really Need to Rent an Air Cylinder?

The Short Answer: It Depends

First off, let’s address the elephant in the room: No, you do not have to rent an air cylinder for your safety showers, but it’s vital to understand when it might be necessary. The decision largely hinges on your specific risk profile and the infrastructure available at your site.

Assessing Your Needs

Consider the types of hazards present in your workplace. Are you dealing with volatile chemicals? Is there a high risk of electrical outages or pneumatic line breaks? Answering these questions can guide you towards the right solution for your safety showers.

Exploring Your Options

Plant Air Systems – Leveraging Existing Infrastructure

Plant air systems, often already in operation for various tools and processes, can be a straightforward solution for powering safety showers. They offer a seamless integration for facilities looking to minimize additional costs and complexity.

Specifications for Plant Air Use:

• Recommended Regulator Setting: 80PSI (acceptable range from 60–120 PSI)

Utilizing plant air requires adherence to these pressure settings to ensure the safety shower operates effectively, providing adequate flow and pressure without risking damage to the system or harm to users.

Air Compressors – A Dedicated Solution

For facilities without suitable plant air or those seeking a dedicated power source for their safety showers, air compressors present a viable option. They can be tailored to meet the specific demands of the safety shower system, ensuring reliability and consistency.

Specifications for Air Compressor Use:

• Recommended Regulator Setting: 80 PSI (will function properly from 60–120 PSI)
• Minimum Performance Requirement: Must deliver at least 7 SCFM at 80 PSI

Choosing an air compressor that meets these specifications is crucial for maintaining the operational integrity of your safety shower, especially in scenarios where plant air might not be sufficient or available.

Compressed Air Options – A Portable and Reliable Source

For locations that require mobility or lack access to plant air and air compressors, compressed air tanks, such as a 200 cu. ft. nitrogen tank, offer a dependable alternative. These tanks provide a high degree of flexibility and can be easily replaced or refilled as needed.

Specifications for Compressed Air Tanks:

• Connection Type: CGA-580
• Recommended Regulator Setting: 80 PSI (operational range from 60–120 PSI)
• Usage Guidelines: Replace cylinder after five minutes of continuous use or six months, whichever comes first

Adhering to these specifications and guidelines ensures that the safety showers can be used effectively in emergencies, with the added benefit of portability and ease of setup.

Download the Pneumatic Air Options Pages

For those of you looking to dive deeper into the pneumatic air options for the SafetyRig and EcoRig mobile safety showers, we’ve got just the resource for you. Our detailed Pneumatic Air Options Sheet is now available for download, offering an in-depth look at how to optimally power your mobile safety solutions.

Why We Don’t Ship with Air Cylinders

Shipping air cylinders, especially across state lines, can be fraught with regulatory challenges and safety concerns. It’s one of those logistical headaches no one wants to deal with, and frankly, it’s why we don’t ship our units with them. Instead, we recommend sourcing these locally.

Renting an Air Cylinder: A Practical Solution

For those who need air cylinders, renting from local vendors like Airgas can be a convenient and cost-effective solution. Not only does it bypass the shipping challenges, but it also supports local businesses. Plus, rental fees are generally reasonable, making this a great option for both short-term and long-term needs.

Here are some possible suggestions:

Conclusion

Deciding whether to rent an air cylinder for your safety showers involves a careful evaluation of your needs, the specific risks at your facility, and the infrastructure you already have in place. While renting air cylinders is a viable option for many, exploring alternatives like utilizing shop air or investing in compressed air tanks may offer more sustainable solutions. Remember, the goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of your team in the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible.

Safety is a journey, not a destination, and making informed decisions about your safety equipment is a crucial step on that journey. Stay safe, stay informed, and never hesitate to reach out to us. We are happy to offer guidance tailored to your specific situation.