Safety Gear to Wear When Using a Hydraulic Breaker
From urban projects to breaking ground that’s a bit tougher than expected to mining, hydraulic breakers make quick work of an otherwise tedious project. But these machines are as dangerous as they are useful, so it’s important to be properly equipped when you use one. We here at RECO Equipment want to ensure you stay safe on the job, so we’ve put together some suggestions for safety gear to wear when using a hydraulic breaker. To learn more, or to see the hydraulic breakers we have for sale, contact one of our stores throughout Ohio, Indiana, and Pennsylvania, today!
Headwear
It’s vital to protect your head on any project using heavy machinery, but especially when a hydraulic breaker is involved. The first piece of safety gear you should prioritize is, of course, a well-fitted hardhat. Hardhats in general will protect your head from flying chunks of rock or concrete, particularly from above. It’s important that it’s well-fitted, though, to ensure it stays where it needs to be and doesn’t constrict your blood flow.
Dust Mask
Hammering away at hard surfaces is messy business, and much of what you chip away is going to be airborne. Fine dust can cause serious long-term damage to your lungs and nasal passages, so it’s important to wear a dust mask to keep your airways clear and clean.
Eye Protection
If you’ll be standing very close to the actions, you may also want goggles or even a face shield to prevent larger debris from hitting you. Goggles will prevent you from getting blinded by flying dust or large chunks of rock. A face shield will provide more generalized protection but may let some debris in from the sides or below.
Earmuffs
The airborne debris isn’t the only safety hazard. A hydraulic breaker is loud, and the grinding and crushing of rock or concrete is as well. Combined, it’s the perfect recipe for long-term hearing damage and conditions like tinnitus. Being able to hear without consistent ringing in your ears is nice, so wear some earmuffs or other hearing protection.
Anti-Vibration Gloves
Another dangerous aspect of a hydraulic breaker, particularly from handheld models, is the intense vibrations. It can cause severe enough friction that it can interfere with blood flow to the hands. Long-term, it can contribute to joint pain and worse. Anti-vibration gloves should counteract most of this.
Long Pants and Sleeves
Finally, the rest of your outfit. You’ll need to wear long sleeves and pants when handling a hydraulic breaker to avoid getting hit too hard anywhere else on your body. Durable, breathable fabrics like denim can help keep you safe without being overly restrictive.
We hope these tips help keep you safe the next time you use these powerful tools! For more information, or to see the hydraulic breakers we have available, contact us at RECO Equipment. We proudly serve the people of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana—let us serve you today!