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Safe Use of Hydraulic Systems | Miller Hydraulic Service

May 09, 2022
Safety First Sign — Manteno, IL — Miller Hydraulic Services, Inc.

Tips for the Safe Use of Hydraulic Systems

Hydraulic systems are essential in making work efficient. The generated force at the effector end of the system is enough to handle different complex tasks. Still, harnessing this potential requires you to be cautious to ensure that you and your workers are safe.

All hydraulic systems require a certain level of respect, given the gravity of potential injuries that result from mistakes. This piece describes a few safety precautions that you can take to ensure your hydraulic system is safe. 

Employee Training

Mistakes can occur when someone does not bleed pressure on your system or leaves unsecured loads. Workers can get lax when they use hydraulic equipment for a long time. In addition, hasty repairs, especially on a strict deadline, may lead to accidents. The best way to ensure your workers follow safety practices is to bring in a hydraulic system expert.

Experienced hydraulic technicians follow the proper procedures OSHA recommends regarding modification, hot environments, and periodic inspection. Inviting such experts to your organization ensures your workers comply with the various safety protocols.

Your workers also require training about personal protective equipment. For example, employees must wear protective gloves and safety glasses when inspecting potential leaks. Moreover, they should examine the system periodically to identify hazardous defects such as leaking cylinders and bent components. 

Proper Installation

Proper installation will prevent accidents as you use the hydraulic system. For instance, the hoses and the rest of the hydraulic assembly have a shelf life. Therefore, these items may be unsafe without proper storage, service, or installation. The pressurized liquid constantly exerts pressure on the system's weakest points, which could be dangerous. 

Hire an expert to select and install all your hydraulic system components. The professional can detect defects in the equipment and ensure the parts do not break or burst. The expert also recommends a suitable area to install noisy components to avoid noise pollution. Such safety precautions ensure that your business takes care of its workers and the environment.

Preventive Maintenance

The concept of preventive maintenance in engineering applies to different machines in your workshop. This equipment maintenance principle ensures that the system is safe to operate. For example, preventing contaminants from entering the hydraulic system can help avoid damage and accidents as you use the system.

A hydraulics expert helps you create a maintenance schedule based on the manufacturer's specifications. The technician also prioritizes the equipment that needs maintenance based on whether the equipment is mobile or stationary. Other factors to consider when making a preventive maintenance schedule include storage condition, external influences, working pressure, frequency of use, and the integrated components.

Standards Adherence

Different standards govern the installation and use of hydraulic systems. If you purchase the system for the first time, you may not be familiar with these standards. However, getting an expert in hydraulics can help promote safety at your workplace by adhering to these laws. Such measures are also essential in helping your company avoid legal problems due to non-compliance. 

For example, the hydraulics expert can follow the ISO 12100 standard. This standard dictates the basic design principles, methods of risk assessment, and reduction of hazards. Using such a standard when designing, using, and maintaining hydraulic systems can significantly reduce risks. 

At Miller Hydraulic Service, we pride ourselves with years of experience in installing, repairing, rebuilding, and maintaining a wide range of hydraulic actuators. The experts at our firm offer personalized and high-quality services at a reasonable cost. Contact our team for all your hydraulic system needs. We look forward to helping with whatever you require. Let us know of any questions or concerns you may have.

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