Under Australian law, it is mandatory for pressure vessels, including air receivers and air oil separators, to undergo regular inspections and be registered. These requirements are not only a matter of legal compliance but also critical for ensuring the safety of employees and maintaining the integrity of your workplace. Recent changes to legislation, such as the introduction of the Work Health and Safety Act 2020 (WHS Act) and related regulations, have made these processes simpler and clearer. Key updates include unified laws, better-defined responsibilities, and a shift from the term “Classified Plant” to “Registered Plant.” With these changes, understanding the requirements for air compressors is more important than ever for businesses that wish to remain compliant.
Do Air Compressors Need to Be Registered?
While the air compressor itself does not need to be registered, any associated air receiver or air oil separator must be. Under Western Australian law, pressure vessels classified as high-risk according to the Australian Standard AS 4343-2014 must be registered. This includes equipment classified as Hazard Levels A, B, or C. Equipment with lower risk, classified as Hazard Levels D or E, does not require registration. If you are uncertain about your air receiver’s hazard classification, Air & Power can evaluate it as part of a thorough air compressor inspection.
For more details on plant registration, visit the WA Government website: Plant and Design Registration Guide or consult AS 4343-2014: Pressure Equipment – Hazard Levels.
Do Air Compressors Need to Be Inspected?
If your air compressor is paired with an air receiver or air oil separator, regular inspections are also necessary. Pressure vessels are subject to heavy operational stresses that can cause wear, corrosion, and other issues over time. Routine inspections are essential to detect and address these problems before they develop into safety risks, costly repairs, or equipment failure.
Adhering to the Australian Standard AS/NZS 3788:2024 ensures that your compressed air systems remain safe, efficient, and legally compliant. Regular inspections help reduce downtime, extend the lifespan of your equipment, and protect your workforce.
How Often Should Air Receivers Be Inspected?
The frequency of inspections depends on factors such as hazard level, operational conditions, and maintenance history. In general, pressure vessels should be inspected at least once every two years. However, a qualified pressure vessel inspector can perform a detailed risk assessment to determine the appropriate inspection intervals for your equipment. Regular, proactive inspections can identify early signs of wear or corrosion, ensuring the reliability of the system and preventing disruptions.
For more information, download Safe Work Australia’s information sheet or refer to AS/NZS 3788:2024: Pressure Equipment – In-Service Inspection.
How to Inspect an Air Receiver
Inspecting an air receiver involves both internal and external evaluations:
- External Inspections: Check components such as pressure gauges, supports, anchoring, and pressure relief valves.
- Internal Inspections: Examine the interior for signs of corrosion, wall thickness, sludge buildup, and the proper function of condensate drainage systems.
Plant Registration and Inspections in WA
Navigating the registration and inspection requirements for pressure vessels in Western Australia can be complicated, but Air & Power is here to simplify the process. Whether you purchased your equipment from us or another supplier, we can assist you with registration and inspection. While Air and Power cannot register your air receiver directly, we can guide you through the process and ensure that all paperwork is completed correctly.
We pride ourselves on providing reliable and responsive service at competitive prices. As an independent service provider experienced with all brands, we offer tailored solutions that best fit your operational needs, regardless of the equipment brand.
Ensure your compressed air equipment meets the latest compliance standards with Air & Power. Contact ustoday to schedule an inspection or to learn more about our registration services.
Visit our website or call us at (08) 9424 2800.
