Hydraulics - always think safety!

Hydraulics not only allow difficult tasks to be performed with relative ease, but the work can be undertaken with a degree of precision and control which cannot easily be attained with other forms of equipment. The very simplicity of such tools can often lead to their abuse and it is often difficult to comprehend the tremendous forces that are generated with a minimum of input from the user.

However, where the proper rules and disciplines are observed, hydraulic power is also one of the safest methods of applying force – and some of the most common mistakes are the simplest to rectify, says Enerpac.

For the safety of the operators, the safety of other people in the vicinity of the job and the longer life and efficient functioning of the equipment, Enerpac suggests some simple guidelines. These include the proper use of PPE as well as an effective maintenance and inspection routine.

These guidelines apply to all worksites although specialist courses are arranged by Enerpac for issues unique to particular site conditions. More information can be found on the Enerpac website and readers of Earthmover can find an extended version of this article in the upcoming October edition of the magazine.

For more information visit: www.enerpac.com.au