1910.430(b)(4): Test Breathing Air Every 6 Months
Air compressor systems for diving must have their output tested for air purity every 6 months, with samples taken at the connection to the distribution system. Non-oil lubricated compressors do not need to be tested for oil mist.
Key takeaways
- 1910.430(b)(4) is part of OSHA's general industry standards (29 CFR Part 1910, Subpart T).
- OSHA cited it 3 times in the last 3 years, in 3 inspections, with $16,341 in current penalties.
- 1 death is linked to inspections that cited this rule.
- Related part: 1910.430(b) Air compressor system (4 citations).
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1910.430(b)(4) is one requirement inside 1910.430 Equipment, an OSHA general industry standard (Part 1910, Subpart T). The official text below is copied word for word from the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR). The numbers, injury cases and training on this page show how OSHA enforces it on real job sites.
Official text
(4) The output of air compressor systems shall be tested for air purity every 6 months by means of samples taken at the connection to the distribution system, except that non-oil lubricated compressors need not be tested for oil mist. 3 citations
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15. Read all of 1910.430.
Injuries linked to this rule
1 death is linked to inspections where OSHA cited 1910.430(b)(4).
At 2:00 p.m. on June 25, 2024, an employee working as a commercial diver for a highway and bridge contractor had descended 19 feet to the ocean floor. The employee was acclimating himself for a commercial diving operation. The employeewas a new diver to the…
Where and how often it was cited
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OSHA interpretation letters
Related parts of this rule
- 1910.430(b) Air compressor system 4 citations
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Frequently asked questions
How often must compressor air be tested?
Every 6 months.
Where are the samples taken?
At the connection to the distribution system.
Do all compressors need oil mist testing?
No, non-oil lubricated compressors need not be tested for oil mist.
About this page
Sources
- 29 CFR 1910.430 (eCFR), text current as of 2026-10-15
- U.S. Department of Labor enforcement data: OSHA inspections, citations and accident records, copied nightly; data as of 2026-10-20
3-year window. Federal OSHA only; state-plan rules are not counted. Plain-language text is a summary, not legal advice; the official text controls. Black Belt Safety is not part of OSHA or the Department of Labor.