When not properly maintained, any hose used in a hydraulic system or connected to a pressure source is a potential danger.
Hazards include:
• Fluid Injections – Fine streams of pressurized fluid escaping from a damaged hose can enter the body and cause tissue damage. Remember, hydraulic fluid is TOXIC!
• Whipping Hoses – Whip action of hose ends after hose separates can strike a person with
deadly force.
• Fluid Burns – Fluid escaping from a damaged hose can burn skin even without igniting.
• Fires and Explosions – Escaping fluid exposed to a source of ignition may burn or explode. Guard hoses from exposure to ignition sources.
• Electrical Shock – Hoses can contain conductive reinforcement material or conductive fluid. Avoid routing near electrical equipment.
• Mechanical failure – Machinery driven or supported by hydraulics can move unexpectedly when a hose supplying that machine fails and results in loss of hydraulic pressure.
Make sure you inspect hoses regularly for:
• Exposed reinforcement wires
• Leaks
• Damaged or corroded fittings
• Excessive dirt or grease build-up
• Missing guards, shields, and clamp
Hopespare
