MTS 318 Load Unit - Manual (Page 35)

318 Load Unit Safety 35
Locate and read
hazard placards/labels
Find, read, and follow the hazard placard instructions located on the equipment.
These placards are placed strategically on the equipment to call attention to areas
such as known crush points and electrical voltage hazards.
Locate Lockout/tagout
points
Know where the lockout/tagout point is for all of the supply energies associated
with your system. This includes the hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, and water
supplies (as appropriate) for your system to ensure that the system is isolated
from these energies when required.
Know facility safe
procedures
Most facilities have internal procedures and rules regarding safe practices within
the facility. Be aware of these safe practices and incorporate them into your daily
operation of the system.
Locate Emergency
Stop buttons
Know the location of all the system Emergency Stop buttons so that you can
stop the system quickly in an emergency. Ensure that an Emergency Stop button
is located within 2 meters (6 feet) of the operator at all times.
Know controls
Before you operate the system for the first time, make a trial run through the
operating procedures with the power off. Locate all hardware and software
controls and know what their functions are and what adjustments they require. If
any control function or operating adjustment is not clear, review the applicable
information until you understand it thoroughly.
Have first aid available
Accidents can happen even when you are careful. Arrange your operator
schedules so that a properly trained person is always close by to render first aid.
In addition, ensure that local emergency contact information is posted clearly and
in sight of the system operator.
Know potential crush
and pinch points
Be aware of potential crush and pinch points on your system and keep personnel
and equipment clear of these areas.
Remember, when hydraulic power is interrupted on a servohydraulic system, it is
likely that stored accumulator pressure will persist for some time within the
system. In addition, it is likely that as stored energy dissipates, gravity will cause
portions of the system to move.
Be aware of
component movement
with hydraulics off
The crosshead can slowly drift down the columns if the locks are turned off and
when hydraulic pressure is turned off. The crosshead can damage any test
fixtures, grips, and specimen in its path. Unlock the crosshead only to reposition
it. Always lock the crosshead after you have repositioned it and never leave the
crosshead unlocked.
The actuator rod can also drift down when hydraulics are turned off hitting
anything in its path. This uncommanded movement is because of oil movement
between the pressure/return ports and oil blow by across the piston hub. Be aware
that this can happen and clear the area around the actuator rod when hydraulics
are turned off.
Know electrical
hazards
When the system electrical power is turned on, minimize the potential for
electrical shock hazards. Wear clothing and use tools that are properly insulated
for electrical work. Avoid contact with exposed wiring or switch contacts.
Whenever possible, turn off electrical power when you work on or in proximity
to any electrical system component. Observe the same precautions as those given
for any other high-voltage machinery.