Wrong Line Takes Life

A worker had been sandblasting equipment in preparation for repairs. A co-worker later found him dead on the floor. The victim had been using a supplied-air respirator, but it appeared he had mistakenly plugged it into a nitrogen line. Without the normal mixture of air including life-giving oxygen, he suffocated and died.

When it comes to respiratory safety, a mistake can be instantly fatal. Lines must be properly marked, and all safety procedures must be followed. Never substitute anything for safe breathing air. Do not use the industrial compressed air intended to power tools and equipment because it may be contaminated with fuel vapors or other impurities. Do not use pure oxygen because of hazards including fire. All equipment related to respiratory safety must be inspected carefully on a regular basis, and workers using respiratory protection must receive thorough training and regular reviews.