Using air to blow off the surface of a coating is a common practice in preparation, but there are specific circumstances when it is not advisable. In this case, when lead is present in the coating waste, blowing the surface with compressed air can aerosolize lead particles, creating a health hazard through inhalation. This poses serious risks to workers and necessitates strict adherence to safety regulations and practices regarding lead exposure.
In situations where moisture is present on the steel, it may not necessarily be harmful to use air, but it could potentially drive moisture into the surface or create other adhesion issues. High temperatures can also affect coatings, but the risk associated with air blowing is not directly linked to temperature itself. As for the use of high-pressure spray, while it is important to be cautious with pressure, the guiding concern is more about the presence of hazardous materials like lead that actively warrants avoidance of compressed air use.