The pneumatic test is a form of pressure test used to assess system integrity in pressurized systems when the hydrostatic test is difficult to apply. A pneumatic test employs the use of air, nitrogen, or any other non-flammable and non-toxic gas.

Pressure testing (both hydrostatic and pneumatic) should always be performed under controlled circumstances, according to an approved test plan, and documented in a test record. A single authorized test plan could be used for multiple similar tests, but each test requires a distinct test record. Because of the larger degree of potential energy stored during the compression of the gas, pneumatic tests are potentially more harmful than hydrostatic tests. To reduce the possibility of brittle failure
during testing, ensure that the system is suited for pneumatic testing first.