Safety first! Don't be a dummy like me - wear eye protection with air compressors

So I was blowing out my garage with my new compressor and a tiny piece of rust flew up and hit my safety glasses. Glad I had them on. It got me thinking, what other PPE do you guys use when working with air compressors? I'm on a budget so looking for cheap but effective options. Also, any tips for using blow guns safely? I've heard horror stories about air embolisms.

Good reminder Dave. I always wear safety glasses and sometimes a face shield when using the blow gun. Also, never use compressed air to clean yourself off - that's how you get air injected into your skin. I keep a pair of those cheap HF safety glasses in my shop at all times. For hearing protection, if you're running a big compressor, especially in a garage, ear plugs are a good idea. I learned that the hard way after a long day of framing.

As a safety inspector, I can't stress this enough: ALWAYS wear eye protection. I've seen guys lose an eye from a blown air hose. Also, check your hoses for cracks and wear. A burst hose can whip around and cause serious injury. For PPE, you want ANSI Z87.1 rated safety glasses. They're not expensive. And never exceed the PSI rating on your tools or tank. Also, use a regulator to keep pressure at a safe level for blow guns - usually 30 PSI max for cleaning. And yes, never point the air at yourself or others.

I'll add: wear gloves when handling air tools, especially impact wrenches. They can get hot and vibrate a lot. Also, if you're using a compressor for painting, wear a respirator. Those fumes are nasty. And for the love of god, don't use PVC pipe for air lines - it can shatter and send shrapnel everywhere. I use copper or rubber hose. Stay safe out there!

Thanks for the tips everyone. I'll definitely pick up a face shield and some ear plugs. I already have safety glasses. I didn't think about the PVC thing, but I've seen people use it. I'll stick with my rubber hose. Also, good call on the regulator - I'll turn down the pressure on my blow gun. Appreciate the help!