Hydraulic Breakers & Hammers
A hydraulic breaker is a powerful hammer attached to an excavator or loader that breaks rock, concrete and pavement. It throws debris, makes extreme noise and dust, and punishes operators and machines if used wrong.
- Operators
- Demolition
- Quarry & Road Crews
Hazards
- Flying debris: chunks of concrete and rock can fly far. Keep people out of the danger zone.
- Silica dust from breaking concrete and rock. See Silica.
- Noise well above safe levels and vibration to the operator. See Noise.
- Tool failure: broken chisels, pins or hoses.
- Pinch and crush points during attachment and tool changes.
- Stability: breaking over an edge or against overhead material can unbalance the machine or drop slabs.
- Hidden utilities in the work area.
Operator practices
- Use a machine rated for the breaker's weight and flow, with a cab guard (FOPS) and impact-resistant windows. Keep doors and windows closed while working.
- Wear hearing protection even in the cab if noise is high, plus a dust mask or respirator as needed.
- Position the tool perpendicular to the surface and hold steady pressure. Do not pry, twist or use the breaker as a lever.
- Do not blank fire (strike with no material under the tool). It damages the machine and can break the tool.
- Do not break too long in one spot; if the material is not breaking within about 15 to 30 seconds, move the tool.
- Avoid working on or near unstable edges and be careful when breaking elevated slabs or overhead material.
- Keep hydraulic hoses and connections inspected and secure; relieve pressure before service. See Hydraulic Hazards.
- Use water spray or dust control to reduce silica.
Zone control
- Set an exclusion zone around the work, larger than the throw distance, with barriers or signs
- Use a spotter and radios or signals. See Backing & Spotters
- Call 811 and locate utilities before breaking ground
- Turn off the machine, lower the breaker and relieve pressure before anyone approaches
- When changing chisels, block the tool, use correct tools and wear eye and hand protection
Standards & references
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