What should you do if you detect a hydraulic fluid leak during pre-operation or operation?

• A. Continue operation carefully
• B. Stop the machine, tag out, isolate power if safe, and report for repair; do not operate until fixed.
• C. Tighten connections and continue.
• D. Ignore the leak.

Answer: (D)

Hydraulic leaks are a serious safety signal because they can lead to loss of control, unexpected movement, and burns from hot hydraulic fluid or fires. If you detect a leak during pre-operation or while operating a wheel loader, you should stop the machine and shut it down. If it can be done safely, apply lockout/tagout and isolate power, then report the issue for repair and do not operate until it’s fixed. This prevents further damage, reduces the risk of sudden system failure, and protects people and the environment. Do not try to tighten fittings and continue, and do not ignore the leak—address it before resuming work.