OSHA Hazard Information Bulletins
July 14, 1992
| DATE: |
|
| MEMORANDUM FOR: |
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.
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