Pierce Enforcer, Operator'S Manual

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© 2018 Pierce Manufacturing Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Safety and Responsibility / 2-9
SAFETY
Do not attempt any rescue of a person on or inside an energized vehicle, or who is energized themselves. If you
touch someone whose body is conducting current, the current will flow through you too. Your muscles will seize up
and you will not be able to escape.
2-5. High Pressure Hydraulic Fluid
Certain equipment on this vehicle may be powered by high pressure hydraulic fluid. High pressure hydraulic fluid
leaks are dangerous. If you see a hydraulic leak, shut down the equipment and call in a service technician trained
in safe methods of trouble-shooting and servicing hydraulic power equipment.
NEVER search for leaks with your hands or other body parts. High pressure hydraulic fluid at pressures as low as
100 psi can penetrate skin. Use a piece of wood or cardboard to detect leaks, keeping hands and other body parts
well away from the potential source of the leak.
If you suspect that you have been exposed to a high pressure hydraulic fluid skin penetration, seek medical help
immediately. The high pressure injection of a fluid such as hydraulic oil, grease and paint is a medical and surgical
emergency. Treatment is required as soon as possible. Often the injury appears minor. Don't be fooled. Fluids
injected under the skin are highly toxic. The injury will lead to gangrene, amputation, and death if not treated
promptly.
Most Doctors are not trained in treating hydraulic related injuries. Make sure they are aware of the potential
problems and get the recommend treatment needed to treat the injury.
2-6. Tanker (Mobile Water Supply) Truck Characteristics
2-6.1 Description of Hazard
Mobile water supply vehicles, known as tankers or tenders, are widely used to transport water to areas beyond a
water supply system or where the water supply is inadequate. Incidents involving motor vehicles account for
approximately 20% of U.S. fire fighter deaths each year; cases involving tankers are the most prevalent of these
motor vehicle incidents. During 1977-1999, 73 deaths occurred in 63 crashes involving tankers. Of those deaths, 54
occurred in 49 crashes in which tankers rolled over (no collision), and 8 occurred in 6 crashes in which the tankers
left the road (no collision). The other cases involved collision with another vehicle (10 deaths in 7 crashes) and
collision with stationary object(s) (1 death) [NFPA 2000].
High Pressure Fluid Hazard.
•
High pressure fluid leak will pierce skin.
• Release pressure before working on system.
• Detect leaks with wood or cardboard. Wear sturdy gloves and goggles. NEVER use fingers.
• Fluid injected into skin must be surgically removed by trained doctors immediately or gangrene will
result.
Fluid injected into skin will injure or kill.