SPR -015

Safety Alert

Issue No 015-11-09 Originator: A Whitelaw Date: 9th November 2009 Approved by: Chris Black

INJECTION OF HYDRAULIC FLUID

An incident at a business external to SPR serves as a timely reminder that employees and contractors must be watchful for potential hazards and risks around working with Hydraulic Fluid under pressure. The incident in this case involved finding the source of a small hydraulic leak on a drilling rig we often see similar equipment, or equipment that operates with hydraulic fluid pressurized at a similar level, on SPR sites.

The fitter found the small leak and requested the machine be shut down so that the hose could be replaced. When the machine was shut down the fitter placed his double-gloved index finger over the wear spot on the hose as a way of keeping track of the location of the leak. The fitter was not aware that the machine system remained pressurised and that, because of the valve arrangements in the system, the system pressure had actually increased. This created a back-pressure hazard for approximately 2 seconds after the machine was shut down. Hydraulic Fluid burst through the wear spot on the hose and was injected through the double gloves into the fitters index finger. Hydraulic fluid causes severe damage to tissue and blood vessels and the injured person required emergency medical attention.

Major surgery was required to track and remove the injected hydraulic fluid from the fitters finger and hand. Even though medical assistance was quickly on hand, the injuries sustained were horrific.

SPR -015

Incidents of this type occur in a range of industries and all too often the injured person loses a limb as physicians try to halt the damage done to the body by the fluid

Please keep the following points in mind when working on hydraulic systems.

Hydraulic fluid is highly injurious when it is allowed to enter the bloodstream. There is little in the way of standard Personal Protective Equipment, such as

gloves or other clothing, which can protect you from high-pressure hydraulic leaks. Never touch the site of a hydraulic leak with any part of your body, even if

protective equipment is worn. Seek medical attention immediately if you have been affected by a pressurised

leak of hydraulic fluid Hydraulic fluid can cause serious harm if it is allowed to enter cuts, scratches, etc.

always keep them covered and wear the required PPE when working with hydraulics.

IF IN DOUBT CONTACT YOUR LINE MANAGER, OR THE SAFETY

DEPARTMENT, FOR ADVICE.