TM 5-4310-387-14
1-11. Safety, Care, and Handling. To prevent personal injuries and equipment damage, strictly observe and comply
with all warnings and cautions in this manual during operation, maintenance, and movement of the compressor unit.
Stay clear of the unit when it is hoisted with a lifting device and slings.
The unit weight is approximately 275 pounds (125 kilograms). If moving the unit by hand becomes necessary, at least
four persons are required for lifting the unit.
The following warnings should be strictly adhered to for safe operation of the equipment.
WARNING
When compressor unit(s) are operating, the operator(s) and other personnel in the area should
wear sound attenuators. The area must be posted as a noise hazard.
WARNING
Shut down the compressor if 3260 psi pressure in the final stage is exceeded.
Do not fill any cylinder if the cylinder inspection data has expired, i.e., five years.
Charge cylinders at a slow rate to prevent excessive heat buildup. Charging rate should not
exceed 200 PSI/minute or 400 PSI/minute if cylinders are submerged in water. Never perform
maintenance or repair on a cylinder or valve when the cylinder is charged. Handle cylinders
carefully. Avoid having the cylinders slip or drop. Do not lift or carry cylinders by the manifold.
Store cylinders in an upright position in a cool, shady place to prevent overheating.
Secure cylinders properly. This includes blocking and strapping them. The enormous potential
energy of a fully charged SCUBA cylinder necessitates that special stowage maintenance and
handling precautions be observed.
Internal inspections, hydrostatic tests, and repair work on cylinders should be accomplished only
by those trained to do so.
Have cylinders inspected for interior deterioration annually.
WARNING
Inspect cylinders externally before and after each use for signs of deterioration, corrosion, dents,
cracks or other damage. Never use a dented, welded or scarred cylinder.
Never fill a cylinder designated for another gas or which was previously filled with another gas.
Never fill an oxygen tank. Danger of explosion exists.
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