Pump and Fluid Systems
Chapter 1: Introduction
weatherford.com
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MP-16 2-Piece 5000 psi January 2013
1.4.3
Common Hazards
The following are major risks and hazards that may occur in an industrial environment.
Each of the following is a WARNING level hazard, meaning personnel should obey all
regulations or risk serious injury or even death.
Securing Equipment
Unsecured equipment can shift and move during operation, not only causing damage to
the components but serious injury or death to personnel. All truck, trailer or skid mounted
equipment should be secured with blocks and/or moorings prior to use, which should be
inspected for damage before equipment is activated.
Hoisting and Lifting Equipment
Equipment that swings or falls while being hoisted can crush body parts caught between
the equipment and other objects, causing serious injury and death. Always use lifting
equipment not only rated for load to be lifted, but also complying with all applicable
regulations, both governmental and corporate.
Before lifting, check to ensure that all parts of the load are secure. Any time a piece of
equipment is being hoisted or lifted; all personnel should clear all locations in which the
equipment could swing, fall or any combination of the two.
Drive Systems
Body parts and loose clothing can become caught on moving and rotating parts of the
pump drive systems, dragging personnel into the system and inflicting serious injury or death.
When working with drive systems, keep all guards in place and in good condition, and keep
hands and clothing clear of the drive system cavity at any time when the drive is in motion.
Hydraulic & Pneumatic Systems
Hydraulic and Pneumatic systems operate by means of high-pressure fluids that can
cause serious injury or death if vented improperly. Avoid striking or puncturing any hydraulic
or pneumatic components or connections. When performing any work on these systems,
even tightening a leaking joint, fitting or connection, slowly drain to zero pressure before
commencing work, and disconnect and tag systems
as “Out of Service.”
Electrical Systems
Electrical systems contain high voltage current which can cause serious injury and death
when improperly grounded. Avoid striking or puncturing any electrical components or
connections, and ensure that the power is turned off, the system is disconnected and that it is
tagged out of service before commencing work.
Lubrication & Filtration Systems
Failure to properly maintain lubrication and filtration systems can result in various types of
catastrophic system failures which themselves can cause serious injury and death. Institute a
complete lubrication program at regular intervals, and inspect all systems before operation.
