Hydraulic fluid systems, also referred to simply as "hydraulics," rely on the power of a pressurized liquid to power mechanical equipment. They are generally regarded as one of the simplest and most effective ways of transmitting mechanical force, but like most machinery, there are rules to be strictly followed to ensure the general safety of the worksite, the machine operators and other people within the operating environment, and to ensure the efficient running and extended life of the equipment. The set rules are also meant to protect the environment over the long term. Here's a guide on the precautions you should take when using hydraulic equipment.

Hydraulic fluid safety precautions

Most hydraulic fluids are combustible and they can easily start a fire if sprayed over electrical sparks, handled in the presence of open flames or heated to vapourisation point. Bulk inventory of hydraulic fluid should be kept only in approved and authorised storage facilities. Spilled hydraulic fluid can make floors slippery. Make sure to clean up any spills immediately when leaking is detected. Cleaning rags should be put away in sealable plastic or metal bins, and they should be properly discarded as soon as possible to minimise the risk of a fire accident.

Worker safety precautions

Safety at the place of work is the responsibility of all and sundry, not just those who made the rules. Workers must follow safety protocols all the time. But that's not all: the practices must be periodically revised to improve safety even further. A good number of mishaps associated with the use of hydraulic equipment are caused by employees who think they are so good at their jobs that they can afford to take shortcuts. Warn personnel operating hydraulic equipment against being careless because a simple act of recklessness can result in calamitous outcomes.

Environmental protection precautions

Many users of hydraulic equipment do not know the proper way to dispose of hydraulic waste once it is cleaned up from the worksite. Cleaning rags used to wipe up hydraulic oil spills, for example, are usually put in the sealable garbage bins, after which they will be hauled to landfills, increasing the toxicity level of the waste disposal sites even more. Some equipment users even wash down the oil spills into floor drains, allowing the toxic waste to find its way into local water tables. Such practices lead to environmental degradation. Finding a recycling facility located nearby that accepts hydraulic waste is a move that is good for the environment in the long run.