How to Operate a Vacuum Pump Safely?

Design, safety and technology used in vacuum pumps has improved immensely in the last few decades. Be that as it may, vacuum pumps and other related devices found in vacuum systems still present the risk of injury to people that work with them, if not properly installed or managed. Read on to find out how to make vacuum pump-related accidents a thing of the past. We have written down some of our best practices with your safety in mind.

Remember! The content herein offers guidelines, which describe the possible requirements for the safe operation of vacuum pumps. These do not claim to be exhaustive or to give an exact interpretation of existing safety legislation. Furthermore, any special features offered by respective products as well as their different application possibilities must be taken into account.

Due to the increasing use of hazardous chemicals in vacuum pumping systems, a greater potential for the occurrence of a dangerous accident exists.

Use ATEX Pumps to Avoid Dangerous Accidents

To minimize this, ATEX certified pumps must be used when extracting, conveying and compressing explosive and flammable media, or when installing in environments that are at risk of explosion.

Operators of vacuum pumps must pay particular attention to ensure their safety. Remember that vacuum systems are especially at risk of severe implosion hazards, and as someone who comes in close proximity and contact with vacuum pumps, take the following safety tips to heart:

• Make sure hot parts of the pump are not be accessible during operation and/or are fitted with protective guards
• Make sure electrical components such as cords and switches are defect free
• Do not operate pumps near containers of flammable chemicals, flammable chemical wastes, or combustible materials such as paper or cardboard
• Do not use solvents that might damage the pump
• Make sure that belt guards are in place during the pump’s operation
• Always close the valve between the vacuum vessel and the pump before shutting off the pump. This prevents sucking vacuum oil into the system. You may also install a non-return/check valve or use a pump with an integrated check valve at the suction;
• Always place a pan under pumps to catch oil drips
• Check oil levels and change oil when necessary
• Conduct all vacuum operations behind a table shield or in a fume hood and always wear safety glasses
• Always use a trap on vacuum lines to prevent liquids from being drawn into the pump, house vacuum line, or water drain
• Record oil change dates and to keep track of the pump’s maintenance schedule
• Never place your hand over the suction inlet of the pump to check the level of suction as this may result in a serious injury
• Pump may start without warning. Always isolate the power supply to the motor before commencing any work on the pump and motor or any other element of the vacuum system.