OSHA Hazard Information Bulletins
Hydraulic Systems Preventive Maintenance
July 14, 1992
REGIONAL ADMINISTRATORS
THROUGH:
- LEO CAREY
- Director
- Office of Field Programs
FROM:
- THOMAS J. SHEPICH
- Director
- Directorate of Technical Support
SUBJECT:
- Hazard Information Bulletin - Hydraulic Systems Preventive Maintenance
The Directorate of Technical Support issues Hazard Information Bulletins (HIBs) in accordance with OSHA Instruction CPL 2.65 to provide relevant information regarding potentially unrecognized safety and health hazards; and inadequacies of materials, devices, techniques, or engineering controls. HIBs are initiated based on information provided by the field staff, studies, reports and concerns expressed by safety and health professionals, employers, and the public. Information is compiled based on a comprehensive evaluation of available facts and latest literature. HIBs are normally prepared in coordination with affected parties.
The Atlanta Regional Office has brought to our attention potential hazards arising from leaking hydraulic lines on frying equipment in the food processing industry. Such leaks near an ignition source may result in serious fire hazards.
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Standard T2.24.1-1991, "Hydraulic Fluid Power - Systems Standard for Stationary Industrial Machinery" applies to such equipment. In addition, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Standards J517-1989, "Hydraulic Hose" and J1273-1986, "Selection, Installation and Maintenance of Hose and Hose Assemblies" which are referenced in ANSI T2.24.1-1991 apply to the hose and hose assemblies for these equipment.
Stein Inc., a supplier of commercial-scale frying equipment, has issued a safety advisory recommending weekly inspection of hydraulic hoses for signs of damage and immediate repair or replacement of damaged hoses. Stein also recommends hydraulic piping to and from fryers, charmarkers, and searing sections be made of rigid malleable iron pipe and not flexible hosing. Additionally, Stein strongly urges that easily accessible, emergency remote gas and hydraulic shut-off stations be placed at logical locations within the plant as a way to restrict fuel sources from feeding the fire, thus reducing the potential for loss of life and property damage.
Compliance and Consultation personnel should be aware of the applicable ANSI and SAE standards for equipment that use hydraulic fluid. The hose and hose assembly should be checked for proper selection, installation and maintenance as required by the ANSI and SAE standards.
Please distribute this bulletin to all Area Offices, State Plan States and Consultation Projects.