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Mine Safety and Health Administration MSHA's Accident Prevention Program
Safety Idea

Hydraulic Hose Maintenance

Safety Something YOU can live with!
Mine Type: All Mines
Category: Maintenance and Mobile Equipment




  • Inspect hoses regularly - Operators should inspect hydraulic hoses before using equipment. Following are several examples of damaged hoses:
    Hydraulic Hose Maintenance

  • Install abrasion protection such as spiral wrapping, sleeves, and guards.

    Hydraulic Hose Maintenance

  • Install guards and shields around ignition sources (exhaust manifold, turbo, muffler, etc.) and operator areas to keep out fluid if a hose fails.
  • Use properly rated hose (working pressures are printed on the hose body) and hose fittings as well as proper hose lengths for the application. Replace hoses only with those that meet equipment manufacturer's specifications.
  • Ensure proper hose routing to eliminate abrasion damage and exposure to ignition and electrical sources.
  • Use hose clamps where appropriate to prevent excessive free motion of hoses.
  • Routinely change out hoses. Avoid costly environmental cleanups, potential injury, unscheduled down time, and damage to other components in the system.

    SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE SAVES LIVES AND MONEY!!

  • Make certain that pressure is relieved before working on any hydraulic circuit.
  • Only trained personnel using proper fittings and crimping tools should construct new hydraulic hoses!
See the following links for more information on hydraulic hose safety:

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Issued: 06/09/2006
Tag # AP2006-0092691