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 example, it is really important that all Personal Protective Equipment or PPE is worn every time an operator is on the machine and in numerous areas, on the jobsite.
PPE
Since propane gas is extremely cold, any contact to your skin, no matter how minor, can lead to serious burns. Hence, it is a requirement that when you are completing a re-fueling process or exchanging the propane tank safety goggles or a complete face shield and thick gloves must be worn for protection. Numerous workplaces require steel-toe boots to be worn too when carrying heavy things is part of your job. Each and every workplace has various regulations set in place that pertain to the company's specific requirements. Your supervisor would inform you of what types of PPE items must be worn prior to your shift begins.
No Smoking
In the refueling zone, there could be no open fire or any kind of smoking going on because of the high flammability factor. Propane gas is extremely ignitable and it is really vital that it is never exposed to any kind of ignition source or a very dangerous exploding situation would unfold.
Check the Valve
Make sure that the valve on the new tank is turned off before connecting the fuel line when exchanging the fuel tank. If you inadvertently insert the fuel line into a valve which is open, propane gas would be released. Overlooking this factor could potentially create a very catastrophic situation.
Fire Extinguisher
A fire extinguisher should be made available, whenever the tank is being changed out during the refueling process. Most businesses require that a fire extinguisher be mounted on each lift truck. This is a really important safety rule that needs to be made a priority in the workplace.
Secure the Tank
Most propane tanks will utilize a restraining device such as a strap or bracket to keep the tank stable. Be sure that this security feature is functioning well as it is being utilized for the vital task to stop the tank from falling or shifting. A faulty restraining situation could cause the tank coming loose and falling or rolling around dangerous.