Final answer:
An air hose with a certain inside diameter requires a safety excess flow valve to shut off the air supply in case of damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
If an air hose is more than ½ inch inside diameter, it's necessary to install a safety excess flow valve at the air supply source. This valve serves as a safety mechanism to automatically shut off the airflow in case the air hose is cut or broken. Larger diameter hoses have the capacity to deliver higher volumes of compressed air, posing greater risks if they experience a sudden rupture or breakage.
The safety excess flow valve acts as a preventive measure against potential hazards by detecting a sudden increase in airflow caused by a severed or compromised hose. When such an event occurs, the excess flow valve rapidly shuts off the air supply, preventing further release of compressed air, which could otherwise create safety risks, including whipping hoses or uncontrolled movement, protecting both equipment and personnel from potential harm or injury in the workplace.