Purpose and Scope

📌 Purpose

To ensure the safe and effective use of a tyre inflation cage when inflating commercial vehicle tyres, minimizing the risk of injury from tyre explosions or component failure.

👥 Scope

This SOP applies to all technicians and personnel responsible for inflating tyres in the Atlas yard.

Required Equipment

🧰 Required Equipment

- Tyre inflation cage (certified and undamaged)

- Air compressor with pressure regulator

- Tyre pressure gauge

- Safety glasses and steel-toe boots

- Hearing protection (recommended)

Safety Checks

✅ Pre-Use Inspection

Before using the cage:

- Inspect the cage for cracks, rust, or structural damage.

- Ensure the cage is securely anchored or placed on a stable surface.

- Check that the air compressor and hoses are in good working condition.

- Verify the tyre is free from visible defects (e.g., bulges, cuts, damaged beads).

Position the Tyre

After correctly and safely fitting the tyre, place the tyre and wheel assembly fully inside the cage.

Ensure the valve stem is readily and easily accessible through the cage bars.

Connect Inflation Equipment

Attach the air hose to the valve stem ensuring that the chuck is secure.

Control the air pressure by turning the tap for the air hose on or off at the fleet vehicle.

Stand Clear ⚠️

When inflating the tyre, stand back beside the ute (at least 3 meters away) so that you are able to control the air pressure, and so that you are out of the way of any flying debris if there was an explosion. 

Inflate Gradually 

Inflate the tyre slowly and carefully, using the external system (that can control the air from the vehicle away from the cage), checking the pressure periodically.

Inflate until your desired pressure is reached.

If there is any unusual noises, bulging, or movement, stop inflation immediately.

Final Checks ✅

Once inflated, disconnect the air hose and verify the pressure with a calibrated gauge.

Remove the tyre from the cage only after confirming it is safe.

Post-Use Procedure 🔎

- Inspect the cage and equipment for wear or damage.

- Report any defects to maintenance immediately.

Safety Precautions ⚠️

- Never inflate tyres outside the cage.

- Do not exceed recommended tyre pressure.

- Do not modify or bypass safety features of the cage.

- Only trained personnel may operate the inflation system.

Thank you for viewing these instructions on how to use the atlas tyre cage. You should now have a greater understanding on this topic.