6-10.3 Pneumatic and Hydraulic Power Tool Safety

6-10.3 Pneumatic and Hydraulic Power Tool Safety

Each tool and item of support equipment has its own detailed set of safety instructions, which should be consulted prior to any operation. Hydraulic tools designed for diver use normally have extra seals to prevent salt-water contamination of the hydraulic system. If leaks of oil occur or water contamination is suspected, using the tools should be stopped and repairs effected.

Section 6 – Dive Planning, Basic Guidelines, and Safety

Hydraulic tools designed for diver use normally do not have any cooling heat exchangers, because the hoses being immersed in water cools the oil. Prolonged surface use of diver tools should be avoided. Care should be taken to adjust the oil flow to support the individual tool requirements. If a hydraulic tool results in an environmental contamination spill, it must be reported as specified in current regulations.

The following general safety precautions are applicable to all hydraulic and/or pneumatic tools that divers use.

• Pneumatic and hydraulic tools that are used underwater should be specially designed for diving use.

A separate air source should be used to supply pneumatic tools. Diver’s air must not be used.

• Whenever pneumatic or hydraulic tools are used on the surface, eye protection must be worn.

• Pneumatic tools, when not in use, should be disconnected from the air

source. Secure air prior to disconnecting. • Gloves should be used by the diver when using pneumatic or hydraulic

tools underwater. • Never use equipment that is not in good working condition • Arrange to have all required gear and tools readily available. • Electrical tools require a ground fault interrupter (GFI) in the circuit

between the power source and the tool. Use of electrical tools underwater requires pre-approval from the Reclamation Diving Safety Advisory Board.

• Never have loose items on the diver that could be entangled in the tool. • The diver must always tend his umbilical when working with grinding

tools to ensure that an umbilical is not severed. • Hold the tool firmly with two hands while running; never overreach.

• Inspect tools topside before sending the tool down to the diver. Ensure grinding wheels, drill bits, etc. are in good condition and function properly.

• Never override the on/off trigger. Only the diver in the water at the work

site shall operate the on/off trigger switch.

Diving Safe Practices Manual May 2006

• The diver should make sure he is clear and all other divers are clear before energizing any tool.

• Never exceed the maximum operating pressure and flow rating of a tool. • Always ensure that the tool rotation is proper. Do not reverse the oil flow

to reverse the direction of the tool. • Never clean or inspect a tool with the hydraulic power source connected.

• Always ensure hydraulic chain saws have water supply flow to the tool.

Chain saws need a continuous flow to remove the slurry, even underwater. • Hydraulic chain saws require visibility or safety straps to prevent kick

back injury. • Power tools shall be off when sent to a diver and when brought to the

surface. Make sure any moving blade has stopped moving before setting down the tool. Topside should shut off the oil flow before moving the tool up from or down to the diver.