Air Compressor Registration & Inspection in South Australia

Understanding Air Compressor Registration and Inspection Requirements in South Australia

Under Australian regulations, pressure vessels, including air receivers and air oil separators, must be registered and regularly inspected. These requirements are crucial for both legal compliance and workplace safety. Recent changes to legislation and related regulations have streamlined and clarified the process. As regulations around air compressors become more straightforward, businesses need to stay informed about these requirements to ensure compliance. 


Do Air Compressors Need to Be Registered? 


To comply with Australian regulations and according to South Australian law, pressure vessels categorised as high-risk under the Australian Standard AS 4343-2014 must be registered with SafeWork SA to comply with the relevant safety regulations in South Australia. This includes equipment classified as Hazard Levels A, B, or C. Equipment classified as Hazard Levels D or E, which are lower risk, do not require registration. If you're unsure of your air receiver's hazard classification, Mobile Compressed Air can evaluate it as part of a full inspection. 
For more detailed information about plant registration, visit the SA Government website: Plant and design registrations or refer to AS 4343-2014: Pressure Equipment – Hazard Levels. 

Do Air Compressors Need to Be Inspected? 


If your air compressor has an air receiver or air oil separator, it will also need regular inspections. Pressure vessels endure significant operational stresses that can lead to wear, corrosion, and other issues over time. Routine inspections must identify potential problems before they become safety risks or lead to costly repairs and equipment failure. 
Adhering to the Australian Standard AS/NZS 3788:2024 ensures that your compressed air systems stay safe, efficient, and legally compliant. Regular inspections help reduce downtime, extend the lifespan of your equipment, and protect your workers. 


How Often Should Air Receivers Be Inspected? 


Inspection frequency depends on hazard level, operating conditions, and maintenance history. Generally, pressure vessels should be inspected at least every two years. However, a qualified pressure vessel inspector can perform a risk assessment to determine the appropriate inspection intervals for your equipment. Proactive inspections can help spot early signs of wear or corrosion, ensuring reliability 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 external and internal evaluations: 
External Inspections: Check components such as pressure gauges, supports, anchoring, and pressure relief valves. 
Internal Inspections: Look for signs of internal corrosion, wall thickness, sludge buildup, and the proper functioning of condensate drainage systems. 


Plant Registration and Inspections in South Australia 


While navigating the registration and inspection process for pressure vessels in South Australia can seem complicated, Mobile Compressed Air is here to help. We can assist with registration and inspections, whether you purchased your equipment from us or another supplier. 
We pride ourselves on offering reliable, responsive service at competitive prices. As an independent service provider familiar with all brands, we offer solutions tailored to your operational needs, regardless of the equipment brand. 
With Mobile Compressed Air, you can ensure that your compressed air equipment meets the latest compliance standards. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or learn more about our registration services. 
Visit our website or call us at (08) 8281 1677.