Any hydraulic system is inherently dangerous, as an enormous amount of energy is transmitted through the high-pressure system. There are many hazards associated with hydraulic systems. The safety of personnel must be ensured while they are operating and maintaining hydraulic systems. Every operator of hydraulic systems has the right to know the hazards of his/her occupation.
The pressurized fluid in a hydraulic system may get discharged when a component fails. This discharge can cause the dangerous release of mechanical forces unexpectedly. Components or fittings can eject or move unexpectedly, hoses can whip around with great force, or high-pressure fluid can inject through pinholes at a very high speed. When maintenance is to be carried out on a system with accumulators, it is essential to isolate the power source from the rest of the system, open the bleed valve, and verify the system pressure.
References:
Industrial Hydraulic Systems and Circuits – Basic Level in the SI Units
Joji Parambath
Industrial Hydraulics – Basic Level in the English Units
Joji Parambath
Hydraulic systems, including fluid and components, are very hot. Certain fluids can chemically burn the skin. The exposure of the hot fluid to the skin can cause the blistering of the skin and even burns. Some types of hydraulic fluids are also flammable. Elevated temperatures may cause the release of toxic vapours from fluids, which are harmful when inhaled. Some people can get allergies when exposed to hydraulic fluids or the additives within the fluids. Eyes are more sensitive to fluid splash than other parts of the body. Therefore, it is essential to use Personnel Protective Equipment (PPE) when working with hydraulic systems.
Joji Parambath
Director
Fluidsys Training Centre
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