The Danger of Hydraulic Injection Injuries

Find Out About Compensation for Unsafe Working Conditions

Hydraulic systems are a familiar sight in many industrial and workplace environments, but less known is the danger of hydraulic injection injuries. This type of injury occurs when high pressure fluid is injected into a worker by accident. It leaves a small puncture wound which may be dismissed as minor. However, these tiny holes are deceptive in severity.

The injury is not caused by a needle. But rather it occurs when the fluid is forcefully ejected from a system at extreme high pressure and penetrates the skin. Due to the pressure, the toxic fluid can spread into the body’s tissue, muscles and even bones. This requires prompt medical attention due to the poisonous nature of the fluid.

Understanding this risk is critical for any workplace which uses hydraulic pressure systems. But if you have sustained this type of injury due to employer negligence; you may be entitled to seek compensation through a personal injury claim.

Jefferies Claims may be able to help as we work with experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and who can assess your case.

Do Not Delay Seeking Treatment

The key danger of hydraulic injection injuries  is that they are often underestimated. Since the entry wound is small, workers may ignore it or delay seeking medical treatment. A puncture may cause extensive tissue damage and a toxic reaction. This may cause a severe inflammatory reaction, infection or poisoning.

Additionally, hydraulic fluids are not sterile, so an injection injury can introduce bacteria deep into the tissues. If left untreated the infection can spread causing sepsis, which is potentially fatal.

When working with hydraulic systems, you should always use protective gloves and clothing to reduce exposure as far as possible. Most importantly, never check for leaks with your hands. Use a leak detection tool, or a piece of cardboard to check for pinhole leaks.

Who Is at Risk?

Hydraulic injection injuries primarily affect workers who handle hydraulic systems regularly. Some of the key groups at risk include:

Industrial Workers – Employees working in manufacturing plants, assembly lines, and factories where hydraulic machinery is common. These environments often involve close contact with high-pressure fluid systems.

Heavy Equipment Operators – Workers in construction, mining, and agriculture who operate hydraulic-powered equipment, such as bulldozers and excavators.

Maintenance and Repair Technicians – Technicians responsible for maintaining and repairing hydraulic machinery face a particularly high risk due to their close interaction with pressurized fluid lines. A minor leak or accidental hose failure during maintenance may cause a sudden and forceful injection.

Aviation and Automotive Technicians – Mechanics working on aircraft and vehicles with hydraulic braking or steering systems. They are particularly at risk when checking for leaks in pressurised systems.

Oil and Gas Workers – The oil and gas industry relies heavily on hydraulic-powered equipment. Workers handling high-pressure fluid systems in drilling operations or refineries are vulnerable to this type of injury.

4 Types of Hydraulic Injection Injuries

Mechanical Hydraulic Injection Injuries – These are caused by high-pressure leaks from hoses, valves, or injectors. They primarily involve deep tissue penetration with minimal visible surface damage.

Chemical Hydraulic Injection Injuries – These occur when the injected hydraulic fluid contains toxic or corrosive substances. This can result in severe chemical burns, tissue necrosis, and systemic toxicity.

Thermal Hydraulic Injection Injuries – Some hydraulic systems operate at high temperatures. This means that an injection injury can include thermal burns as well as mechanical damage.

Gas Injection Injuries – In some cases, high-pressure gases or air in hydraulic systems can cause an injection injury, leading to embolisms and internal damage.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim

If you sustain a hydraulic injection injury in the workplace, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim, depending on the circumstances of the incident.

Employers have a duty to maintain machinery and to have strict safety protocols in place. You will have to show that your injury was a direct result of employer negligence.

This may include lack of proper training, safety equipment or a safe working environment. Defective hoses, seals or valves that result in an unexpected fluid release may also provide grounds for a claim against the manufacturer.

Personal injury claims generally have to be filed within a 3 year period, although there are some exceptions. It is essential that you consult with a personal injury lawyer who can assess your case and guide you through the process.

At Jefferies Claims, we work with highly experienced lawyers in this field who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and we will give you the support and understanding you need. Call us at 0333 358 3034 or visit Jefferies Claims Contact Us Page for a free, initial consultation.