Hydraulic systems are commonly used in various industries due to their high power output and ability to lift and move large loads. However, with this great power creation comes major health and safety dangers if proper safeguards are not taken.
Keeping a load safe requires maintaining proper fluid pressure. If the pressure on it becomes too great, it will try to transfer that energy to its surroundings, and only the soundness of the components will keep it from doing so. It will attempt to escape in any manner imaginable, including through faulty seals, valves, or other points of plumbing failure.
Hazards of Hydraulic Equipment
Hydraulic machines can pose various hazards to operators and people around them, some of which are lethal. This can be due to a variety of factors, including user mistakes, equipment problems, or just a lack of understanding of the operating properties of the equipment with which you are working.
Improper couplings
Every hydraulic system has a unique operating condition that dictates which components it will employ. You can’t utilize low-pressure parts in a high-pressure system, and vice versa. For example, do not put a high-pressure pump in a low-pressure system. If you interchange these parts, you risk causing a rupture that will harm the system and cost you time and money to repair.
High temperatures
Hydraulic systems work at extremely high temperatures, typically between 40 and 100 °C, with a maximum of 135°C. To put this into context, human skin tissue can scald at temperatures of 48°C or more. While many machines are equipped with oil cooling systems, hydraulic fluid is extremely hot and can cause first-, second, or third-degree burns if it comes into contact with skin. These hot fluids can readily be released if a hydraulic line bursts; thus, workers must wear appropriate protection gear.
Pinhole leaks
Pinhole leaks are typical damage to hydraulic pump hoses. Pinhole leaks are frequently difficult to detect and may necessitate some inventiveness. If you’re lucky enough, you might notice oil or fluid pools near the leaking part, which will help narrow down the afflicted area. If you are unable to locate the leak, do not run your finger over the hose line without appropriate protection. You can end up exposing yourself to hydraulic fluid. Because the liquid in the system is pressurized, a small breach might inject fluid under your skin, causing gangrene and excruciating pain. Instead, use an object, such as a piece of plastic or wood, to locate the affected area.
Maintenance
Your hydraulic system contains mechanical components that will require frequent maintenance and repair. This maintenance can detect problems, such as oil leaks and degraded hoses, that may impair the operation of your hydraulic components. Maintenance will also ensure that you can resolve any faults that may pose a safety risk in the workplace.
Manufacturers’ Safety Standards
Before using the hydraulic system, read the instructions and directions carefully. You should be aware of all the system’s hazards and risks, the appropriate operation settings, and how to activate and deactivate the system after regular use or during an emergency. For example, a manufacturer may include the maximum load that the system can withstand during normal operation. To avoid wear and tear, do not put the system under maximum load. Also, do not override the manufacturer’s default settings. Settings such as the relief valve might help keep you safe from system overpressure.
