MTS Material Test Systems - Manual (Page 32)

Customer must evaluate risks due to ejected parts or materials from the test specimens. If the MTS Test Area
Enclosure option is not selected by the customer, then for protection against ejected parts or materials from
test specimens and to control access to the machinery, the Customer must provide a Test Area Enclosure
to protect personnel.
Specimen temperature changes
During cyclic testing, the specimen temperature can become hot enough to cause burns. Wear personal
protection equipment (gloves) when handling specimens.
Handle chemicals safely
Whenever you use or handle chemicals (for example, hydraulic fluid, batteries, contaminated parts, electrical
fluids, and maintenance waste), refer to the appropriate MSDS documentation for that material and determine
the appropriate measures and equipment required to handle and use the chemical safely. Ensure that the
chemical is disposed of appropriately.
Know servohydraulic system interlocks
Interlock devices should always be used and properly adjusted. Interlock devices are designed to minimize
the chance of accidental damage to the test specimen or the equipment. Test all interlock devices for proper
operation immediately before a test. Do not disable or bypass any interlock devices as doing so could allow
hydraulic pressure to be applied regardless of the true interlock condition. The Reset/Override button is a
software function that can be used to temporarily override an interlock while attempting to start the hydraulic
power unit and gain control of the system.
Know system limits
Never rely on system limits such as mechanical limits or software limits to protect you or any personnel.
System limits are designed to minimize the chance of accidental damage to test specimens or to equipment.
Test all limits for proper operation immediately before a test. Always use these limits and adjust them properly.
Do not disturb sensors
Do not bump, wiggle, adjust, disconnect, or otherwise disturb a sensor (such as an accelerometer or
extensometer) or its connecting cable when hydraulic pressure is applied.
Ensure secure cables
Ensure that all cable connections (electrical supply, control, feedback, sensor, communications, and so forth)
are either locking type, or are secured, to ensure that they cannot be disconnected by a simple act. Do not
change any cable connections when electrical power or hydraulic pressure is applied. If you attempt to change
a cable connection while the system is in operation, an open control loop condition can result. An open control
loop condition can cause a rapid, unexpected system response which can result in severe personal injury,
death, or damage to equipment. Also, ensure that all cables are connected after you make any changes in
the system configuration.
Stay alert
Avoid long periods of work without adequate rest. In addition, avoid long periods of repetitious, unvarying, or
monotonous work because these conditions can contribute to accidents and hazardous situations. If you are
too familiar with the work environment, it is easy to overlook potential hazards that exist in that environment.
32 MTS Material Test System Operation
4.0 Safety