Dont blow yourself up! Compressor safety tips & PPE question

Hey guys, just wanted to share a scary moment I had in the shop yesterday. Was using my pancake compressor to fill some tires and the hose popped off the quick connect. Sounded like a gunshot! Scared the crap outta me. Luckily I had my safety glasses on (always do) but it got me thinking about PPE for compressors. What do you all use? I usually just wear glasses and earplugs. Should I be wearing a face shield when blowing out the lines? Also, any tips for securing hoses? I've had this happen before and it's getting old.

Good reminder Dave. I had a similar thing happen with a cheap hose from HF. Now I only use goodyear hoses with proper fittings. For PPE, I always wear safety glasses AND a face shield when blowing out my dust collection lines or using an air nozzle. Those little chips can fly fast. Also, hearing protection is a must if you're running a big compressor. My old oil-less one was deafening. Now I have a quiet California Air Tools and it's much better. But still, earplugs if I'm in the shop for hours.

Dave, you're lucky you didn't get hurt. The most important PPE with compressed air is eye protection, but a full face shield is better when you're using an air blow gun. Also, NEVER use compressed air to clean yourself off. I've seen guys do that and it can inject air into your skin. As for hoses, make sure your quick connects are the proper type and not worn out. I replace mine every couple years. Also, secure the hose with a whip check or a safety cable if you're using a big impact wrench. And always drain your tank! Rust inside can weaken it. I check my tank for rust annually and replace the drain valve if it's sticky.

Thanks for the tips! I didn't think about a face shield for blowing out lines. I'll pick one up. And yeah, I never use air on myself, saw a video of a guy almost losing a finger from that. I drain my tank after every use, but I'll check the valve. Larry, I might look into one of those California Air Tools compressors. My old craftsman is loud as hell. Gary, what do you mean by whip check? I've heard the term but not sure what it is.

Whip check is basically a safety cable that loops around the hose and the tool, so if the connection fails the hose doesn't whip around. You can buy them or make your own with a short length of cable and some clamps. Definitely worth it if you're using a heavy impact. Also, another tip: don't use PVC pipe for air lines. It can shatter and send shrapnel. Use copper or aluminum or special air hose. I've seen some nasty pics of PVC explosions.