Lift Truck Tank Safety
One of the most popular kinds of forklifts offered on the market nowadays is a propane-powered lift truck. The propane utilized to fuel these machines has several properties which must be taken into account when working with the fuel tank. For example, it is really essential that all PPE or Personal Protective Equipment is worn every time an operator is on the equipment and in a lot of areas, on the jobsite.
PPE
As propane gas is very frigid, any contact to your skin, no matter how minor, could lead to severe burns. Hence, it is required that whenever you are completing a re-fueling process or exchanging the propane tank safety goggles or a complete face shield and thick gloves need to be worn for protection. A lot of workplaces need steel-toe boots to be worn also when lifting heavy objects is part of your job. Each and every workplace has different rules set in place which pertain to the company's particular requirements. Your supervisor will inform you of what PPE objects have to be worn before your first shift.
No Smoking
In the refueling zone, there could be no open flames or any kind of smoking going on due to the high flammability factor. Propane gas is very ignitable and it is imperative that it is never exposed to any kind of ignition source or an extremely dangerous exploding situation would unfold.
Inspect the Valve
Before connecting the fuel line during a tank exchange, make sure that the valve on the new tank is turned off. If you accidentally insert the fuel line into a valve that is open, propane gas will be released. Neglecting this factor could potentially create a very catastrophic situation.
Fire Extinguisher
When the tank is being changed out or during the re-fueling process, a fire extinguisher must be made accessible. Most businesses require that a fire extinguisher be mounted on every forklift. This is a very important safety regulation which should be made a priority in the workplace.
Secure the Tank
The majority of propane tanks will use a restraining device like a strap or bracket to keep the tank stable. Be sure that this security feature is functioning properly because it is being used for the vital task to prevent the tank from shifting or falling. A faulty restraining situation can lead to the tank falling or coming loose or rolling around dangerous.