Safe Use of Hydraulic Systems for Trainers and Supervisors

Tailgate Safety Training for Landscaping and Horticultural Services

AEX-892.2.62

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Date:

06/08/2018

Agricultural Safety and Health Program

Objective: Describe the hazards involved in working with hydraulic equipment and how to prevent incidents.

Trainer’s Note

Many implements use a hydraulic system. Understanding the system makes injuries less likely. For this module:

Review the information presented below on hydraulic systems.
Review hazards of working with hydraulic systems and how to prevent incidents.
Ask an experienced worker to demonstrate hooking up machinery to the hydraulic system on a tractor.
Have other workers practice hook-up while you supervise closely.
Review the important points.
Have workers take the True/False quiz to check their learning.

Background

Hydraulic systems can be dangerous. Fluid can escape when adjusting or removing equipment. Fluid can be trapped in the hydraulic system even when the engine and hydraulic pump are stopped. An implement in the raised position has trapped hydraulic fluid that might be pressurized—even if it is disconnected.

The pressure of trapped fluid can be more than 2,000 pounds per square inch (psi). Pressurized fluid can penetrate the skin. You would need surgery to remove the fluid. Penetration injuries may not appear serious. But if they are not properly cared for, gangrene may result. So you could lose a body part if you don’t get prompt medical attention.

Tighten all connectors before applying pressure. Cracked hoses may have pinhole leaks. Keep hands and body away from leaks and nozzles that might eject fluid under high pressure. Use a piece of cardboard or paper to search for leaks. Relieve pressure before disconnecting a hydraulic line.

Do not cross hydraulic lines. If the lines are not coupled correctly, the implement will not rise and drop as expected. Tape or color-code lines to prevent an incident.

Heat causes the fluid to expand, increasing the pressure. Always relieve hydraulic pressure before loosening hydraulic fittings. The hot, high-pressure spray of the hydraulic fluid can cause injury.

Before Servicing Hydraulic-Powered or Hydraulic-Controlled Equipment

Shut off the engine.
Engage the brake.
Shut off the hydraulic pump power.
Lower the implement to the ground.
Move the hydraulic control lever back and forth several times to relieve pressure.
Follow the instructions in the operator’s manual. Specific procedures for servicing hydraulic systems provide safety guidelines.
Stay away from cracked hoses, leaks, and nozzles that might eject fluid under pressure.
Promptly seek medical attention if fluid is injected into the skin.

Review These Important Points

Adjusting and removing equipment when hydraulic fluid is under pressure can be hazardous.
Keep all body parts away from cracked hoses, leaks, and nozzles that might eject fluid under pressure.
Never cross hydraulic lines on equipment.
Always lower the implement to the ground and relieve pressure before servicing.
Follow all instructions in the operator’s manual.
If you notice a lock or a hose in bad condition, tell your employer to have it replaced.

About These Modules
The author team for the training modules in the landscape and horticultural tailgate training series includes Dee Jepsen, Program Director, Agricultural Safety and Health, Ohio State University Extension; Michael Wonacott, Research Specialist, Vocational Education; Peter Ling, Greenhouse Specialist; and Thomas Bean, Agricultural Safety Specialist. Modules were developed with funding from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, Grant Number 46E3-HT09.

Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Department of Agriculture or the U.S. Department of Labor.