American Chemical Society (ACS) Laboratory Safety Practice Test

Using high-pressure air in a laboratory setting can indeed be particularly dangerous because it has the potential to penetrate the skin without creating any visible opening. This can lead to serious internal injuries, such as air embolisms, which occur when air bubbles enter the bloodstream and can cause life-threatening complications.

The pressure at which air is delivered can force it into the body through small orifices or breaks in the skin, often without any immediate or visible signs of injury. This delayed response can mislead individuals into thinking they have not been harmed, which is why it is critical to approach the use of high-pressure air with utmost caution and proper protective measures.

The misconception that high-pressure air is completely safe if used properly disregards the inherent risks associated with its misuse or accidental discharge, which can lead to accidents. Similarly, the idea that it can only damage hard surfaces ignores its capacity to cause harm to biological tissues, further highlighting the importance of respecting safety protocols when working with high-pressure systems in the lab.