Leaks in a fluid power system can cause two issues. The first is premature failure of the power sources due to overloading. What is the second issue?

In a fluid power system, leaks can create significant risks beyond simply affecting the performance of the power source. One critical issue is that leaks may lead to personnel hazards. When fluid escapes from the intended pathway, it can create slippery surfaces, increasing the likelihood of accidents and injuries for personnel working in the vicinity of the system. Moreover, if the leaked fluid is hazardous or toxic, it poses further health risks to workers, highlighting the need for proper maintenance and prompt leak detection to ensure safety in the workplace.

While the other options may also be considerations in a leaking system, the immediate and impactful nature of personnel safety underscores the importance of recognizing this as a direct consequence of leaks. Dirty fluid, damage from low pressure, and system overheating, while potentially serious, do not directly impact the safety of individuals working with or near the system to the same extent.