12 Steps for Onsite Safety

Powerful tools should always be used in a safe environment and certain safety precautions should be adhered to if accidents are to be avoided including personal injury and lost time incidents.

With operator safety as HTL’s priority, our range of tools are designed to incorporate key safety features, and the following top tips will ensure that high levels of health and safety are consistently maintained onsite:

Keep work area clean and well lit

• Considering your working environment is a fundamental consideration. Electric pumps should never be in any atmosphere which can be considered volatile. For uncertain environments, air powered pumps are recommended to prevent any shortages and incidences.
• Avoid any metal to metal contact as this can cause sparks which are a potential fire risk.

Use the right tool

• Ensure the correct tools and attachments are the most suitable for the application. Contact HTL if you are unsure of the recommended tool for the job.
• Set up equipment correctly. Incorrect set up, or socket size may cause the tool to fracture and injure the operator. If the socket isn’t flush on the socket this can cause the socket to fracture.
• Never exceed maximum working pressure, this will be clearly marked on the power head.

Avoid starting the tool prematurely

• The pump remote control should be operated by its designated operator and instructions should be understood. An ‘All Clear’ policy should be followed to avoid premature tool starting.
• In some cases the tool will be a hands free operation. If this is the case and the tool is rested on a bolted connection during the operation, ensure the designated operator is aware and turns the pump off during any tool contact.

NOTE: Never put your hands on the tool during operation. Steadying the tool can be done safely by grasping the safety handle or the reinforced hose guards.

Prevent electric shocks

• Ensure the pump is properly grounded and the correct voltage is being used e.g. 110v/230v.

Store equipment properly

• If tools are not in use onsite, all tools and accessories should be properly stored to avoid damage and deterioration.

Wear correct safety attire

• When handling and operating hydraulic equipment, the following safety attire is essential:
• Safety gloves
• Hard hats
• Safety shoes
• Safety glasses
• Other (which is applicable)

Moving equipment

• Move equipment by using the carry handles or secure holdings. Do not use the hydraulic hoses, hose swivels or power cord to lift or move the equipment. This can cause damage which in turn can create weaknesses leading to accidents.
• When equipment has been moved ensure that the hoses aren’t kinked, inspect before use and replace hoses if necessary.

Tool maintenance

• Tools should always be well maintained to attain the best possible results every time. Inspection of the tools, power packs, hoses, connectors, electric lines and accessories for damage should be common practice before each use as damage can occur at any time.
• Prior to operation, ensure that all the hydraulic connectors are correctly and securely attached. Inspect the hydraulic hoses for any damage and pressurise the pump with the tool connected to check for any hydraulic leaks.
• Lubricate all moving parts in order to reduce friction.

Reaction arms

• Before the tool is placed on the application, always cycle it to ensure proper function.
• Once the tool is on the application, locate a secure reacting point.
• Attach the reaction arm and firmly position it to face the same direction as the square drive.
• Ensure hydraulic hoses are free from the reaction point.
• The system can now be pressurised, if the tool rides up or starts to creep, stop the pressure and adjust the reaction arm to a more secure position.

NOTE: Stay clear of the reaction arm during operation, never put body parts between the reaction arm and the reaction surface.

Always use the correct accessories

• Use high quality sockets and accessories, ensuring that the correct socket size is used to prevent damage to the equipment.

Never use force

• Do not strike a tool or socket, especially while it is under load as this can cause the tool to shatter.

ALWAYS CONSULT

• Contact HTL for any questions relating to equipment and your bolting requirements. Safety is at the forefront of all HTL equipment and is our number one priority. We have industry expertise at your fingertips to assist in any tooling queries, or if you simply want to check that the tool your proposing is the best suited for the application we are available 24/7.

To eliminate lost time incidents, safety procedures should be adhered to. The safety steps mentioned in this article are solely ‘Top Tips’ for use on site. All equipment have their own specific safety mechanisms and features which should be read before use to prevent equipment failure and most importantly, to eradicate accidents occurring.

Please contact HTL for any questions related to tooling requirements.