SAFE OPERATING PRACTICES
Hydraulic System Repairs
Hazard Review
High Pressures Slip, Trip and Fall High Temperatures
Skin Abrasions Crushing Injuries Infection From Hydraulic Oil Penetration
Lifting Skin Contact with Hazardous Chemicals
Inhalation of Volatile Compounds


1. Only work on a hydraulic system after you are fully trained to do so.
2. Thoroughly review the equipment operating manuals before beginning work. Ask questions about anything you do not fully understand.
3. Maintain a clean work area free of slipping hazards and debris.
4. Use all required safety equipment as directed by your supervisor.
5. Utilize adequate ventilation where required by conditions.
6. Always use safety glasses or goggles consistent with the hazard
7. Block, secure or lower to the ground all components that may move, rotate or fall.
8. Relieve system pressures and use lockout/tagout processes prior to performing the work. Check for damaged hoses and connectors. (Note: Some systems use accumulators that store pressure. Identify the system before working on it.)
9. Use extreme caution when disconnecting hydraulic lines. Severe burns from hot fluid can result.
10. Use test equipment designed for higher pressures than the system being repaired. Use of gauges, lines, connectors, etc., designed for lower pressures can result in bursting or equipment damage. Start with high pressure gauges and work down. (Note: A good rule is to use equipment rated at twice what is expected. Example: For a 2500 psi system, use a 5000 psi gauge.)
11. DO NOT USE HANDS OR FINGERS to locate leaks. Fluid under high pressure can be injected into skin causing extreme injury and serious infection
12. Clean up spills immediately. Ensure spill pads are readily available.  Hydraulic fluid is an oily substance which can cause slipping, falling and resulting injuries.
13. Do not work under equipment/apparatus that is supported only by hydraulics. Stops, safety pins, etc. must be in place prior to beginning repairs.
14. Review MSDSs for all chemicals used.
Related SOPs
General SOPs -- Chapter 25 Hoisting/Jacking --26A-
Maintenance and Repair Shops (General) -- 26A- Mechanic Operations -- 26A-
Roadside Equipment Repair -- 26B-
Marine Vessel Field Maintenance -- 26B-
Marine Shore Maintenance Facilities -- 26B-
High Pressure Hoses -- 26E-
26a-