DIGGER DERRICK
1-69
Digger Derrick Terex South Dakota, Inc. 463280 - 9/14
OPERATION GUIDELINES
HYDRAULIC LINE FAILURE
Hydraulic line failure during Aerial Device operation presents numerous hazards. Be aware that a hydraulic
oil mist caused by a leak or hydraulic line failure is conductive even though nonconducting oil is used.
WHAT CAN CAUSE A HYDRAULIC LINE TO FAIL?
• Poorly maintained hydraulic system.
• Improperly assembled and installed hydraulic lines.
• Weather damaged hose assemblies.
• Hydraulic tool hoses that contact energized conductors phase to phase or phase to ground.
• Boom contact with phases causing a short circuit, which overheats the hydraulic line.
• Improper system pressure setting.
• Overheating the hydraulic system.
• Snagging of hydraulic lines on fixed objects.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN WHEN HYDRAULIC LINES FAIL?
Hydraulic oil, when confined within the hydraulic system and properly maintained, is non-conductive and not
subject to being ignited. There are numerous hazards that develop when there is a hydraulic line separation:
• Personnel may suffer burns from contact with hot oil.
• A vacuum may be created in the line and breech the insulated portion of the booms causing the Aerial
Device to be conductive.
• If the hydraulic line failure creates a mist of oil, it very easily can be ignited by any outside source of
ignition; such as, electric arcing, sparks, and flames.
• The reservoir may be drained of oil, which will make the Aerial Device inoperable.
A spray or mist produced by a hydraulic leak under pressure is very hazardous to
personnel. This spray or mist can puncture the skin or become embedded beneath
the skin. This condition would require immediate medical attention.
H23877A
Escaping fluid under pressure
can penetrate skin causing
serious injury.
Relieve pressure before disconnecting
hydraulic lines. Keep away from leaks
and pin holes. Use a piece of
cardboard or paper to search for leaks.
Do not use your hand.
Fluid injected into skin must be
surgically removed within a few hours
by a doctor familiar with this type
injury or gangrene will result.
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