What is a principal hazard associated with the use of compressed air for cleaning?

The principal hazard associated with the use of compressed air for cleaning is flying chips. When compressed air is used, it can dislodge particles, debris, or chips from surfaces, which may then become airborne. This can pose a significant risk of injury to individuals nearby, as these flying objects can strike and cause harm, ranging from minor cuts to severe injuries, depending on the size and speed of the particles. Therefore, understanding the dangers of compressed air, especially in terms of generating flying debris, is crucial for maintaining a safe working environment and implementing appropriate safety measures, such as personal protective equipment like safety goggles or face shields.

While electric shock, noise exposure, and heat exhaustion can also be concerns in specific contexts involving machinery, they are not the primary hazards directly linked to the use of compressed air for cleaning purposes.