How Proper Hydraulic Safety Methods can Prevent Hydraulic Fatalities

In today’s high-tech world, the use of hydraulic safety methods can prevent hydraulic fatalities from occurring. When equipment and devices utilize the power of liquid fluids to operate machinery, care must be taken to ensure everyone follow specific hydraulics procedures. Hydraulic systems are used in many items including elevators and tools. Yet many companies continue searching for answers when trying to control accidents from happening.

How Hydraulic Systems are Common

Following specific hydraulic procedures is critical when operating machinery. By practicing proper hydraulic safety, hydraulic maintenance personnel can effectively produce quality work. Many companies in industries such as construction, manufacturing, mining, marine, agriculture, forestry, transportation, and aviation, have strict standards they must keep when operating heavy machinery that utilize hydraulic systems. Common equipment and devices that hydraulics is used include:

· Elevators

· Boats

· Construction Vehicles

· Dental and Barber Chairs

· Press Machines

· Lifts

· Tunnel Boring Machines

· Power Plant Systems

· Machine Tools

· Loaders

Preventing Hydraulic Fatalities

All hydraulic maintenance personnel should have proper training in hydraulic safety methods. There are specific hydraulic procedures that must be used to prevent accidents including electrocutions and burns from happening. Since hydraulic systems store fluid under high-pressure conditions, the stored fluid becomes hot with prolonged usage. If a hose or other component become loose or damaged while the pressure is set at high levels, it can lead to burns, internal fluid exposure, and even hydraulic fatalities. Below are some ways individuals can practice good hydraulic safety.

· Timely Maintenance – Hydraulic maintenance personnel should regularly check for any oil leaks or worn hoses and fittings. Ensure that all pressure is bled from the hydraulic system. Never repair machinery while it is still operating. When moving the machine to another location, double check to ensure the machine is secured solidly in place. Make sure to replace filters promptly when needed.

· Safe Operation – A hydraulic maintenance personnel should never attempt to service or operate equipment or devices that use hydraulic systems without proper training of hydraulic safety methods. Company employees must visually check for cracks, leaks, and hard, twisted, flattened, or kinked hoses. If there is anything that is out of order, the machine should be shut down immediately until a repairperson arrives.

Hydraulic fatalities are on the rise more than ever. Make sure you are properly prepared to operate hydraulic systems. At The Hydraulic Safety Authority of Canada, we pride ourselves in providing quality safety awareness training specific to hydraulic systems. Our knowledgeable staff has the hands-on and technical experience you will need to learn the proper hydraulic safety methods and operational procedures correctly. You can learn more about hydraulic safety procedures by contacting us at info@hsac.ca.