Lift Truck Tank Safety
Amongst the most common kinds of lift trucks available on the market nowadays is a propane-powered forklift. The propane utilized to fuel these equipment has several properties that must be taken into consideration when working with the fuel tank. For instance, it is important that all PPE or Personal Protective Equipment is worn every time a driver is on the machinery and in numerous areas, on the jobsite.
PPE
As propane gas is very frigid, any contact to your skin, no matter how minor, can create serious burns. Thus, it is required that when you are completing a re-fueling process or exchanging the propane tank a full face shield or safety goggles and thick gloves must be worn for protection. Lots of workplaces require steel-toe boots to be worn as well when lifting heavy items is part of your task. Each workplace has different regulations set in place which pertain to the specific needs of the business. The supervisor will inform you of what kinds of PPE things should be worn prior to your first shift.
No Smoking
Due to the high flammability factor, there could definitely be no open fire or any type of smoking going on in the re-fueling zone. Propane gas is extremely flammable and it is vital that it is never exposed to any type of ignition source or a very dangerous exploding situation would unfold.
Inspect the Valve
Before connecting the fuel line during a tank exchange, make certain that the valve on the new tank is turned off. If you inadvertently insert the fuel line into a valve that is open, propane gas will be released. Neglecting this factor could possibly lead to a very terrible situation.
Fire Extinguisher
When the tank is being changed out or during the re-fueling process, a fire extinguisher should be made accessible. The majority of companies require that a fire extinguisher be mounted on each and every forklift. This is an important safety regulation that has to be made a priority within the workplace.
Secure the Tank
The majority of propane tanks use a restraining device such as a strap to keep them stable. Be sure that this security feature is working properly since it is being utilized for the important task to prevent the tank from shifting or falling. A faulty restraining condition could lead to the tank falling or coming loose or rolling around dangerous.