When working on a high-pressure air system, what safety procedure should be followed?

When working on a high-pressure air system, it is essential to tag out and depressurize the system before performing any maintenance or repairs. This safety procedure is critical because high-pressure air systems can pose significant hazards, such as the risk of sudden release of pressure, which can lead to equipment failure, personal injury, or even fatalities.

Tagging out the system ensures that it cannot be inadvertently turned back on while maintenance is being conducted. Depressurizing the system eliminates the risk of high-pressure air being released suddenly, allowing workers to operate in a safer environment. By following this procedure, team members can reduce the likelihood of accidents and make informed decisions regarding their safety while working on high-pressure systems.

Engaging in any work with the system still running or only partially depressurizing ignores these necessary precautions and increases the risk of a dangerous incident occurring. Similarly, using protective gear while continuing work without addressing the pressurization of the system does not adequately mitigate the risks associated with high pressure. Hence, the proper procedure is to ensure the system is completely de-energized and safe before any work begins.