Lift Truck Tank Safety
Amongst the most popular kinds of forklifts offered on the market today is a propane-powered lift truck. The propane utilized to fuel these machinery has several properties that must be taken into account when working with the fuel tank. Like for instance, it is very essential that all Personal Protective Equipment or PPE is worn every time an operator is on the machinery and in many places, on the jobsite.
PPE
Propane gas is fairly cold and could result in serious burns to the skin if exposed, no matter how minor the contact. Therefore, it is a requirement that when you are completing a re-fueling process or exchanging the propane tank a full face shield or safety goggles and thick gloves need to be worn for protection. Many workplaces need steel-toe boots to be worn too when carrying heavy objects is part of your responsibility. Each and every workplace has various rules set in place that pertain to the specific requirements of the business. The supervisor would inform you of what PPE items must be worn prior to your starting your shift.
No Smoking
Because of the high flammability factor, there can absolutely be no open flames or any type of smoking going on in the re-fueling area. Propane gas is very flammable and it is very vital that it is never exposed to any type of ignition source or an extremely dangerous exploding situation would unfold.
Inspect the Valve
Make sure that the valve on the new tank is turned off prior to connecting the fuel line when exchanging the fuel tank. If you inadvertently insert the fuel line into a valve which is open, you would release the propane gas. Overlooking this factor can potentially lead to a very catastrophic situation.
Fire Extinguisher
A fire extinguisher must be made available, whenever the tank is being changed out during the refueling process. The majority of businesses require that a fire extinguisher be mounted on every forklift. This is a really important safety rule which has to be made a priority within the workplace.
Secure the Tank
The majority of propane tanks utilize a restraining device like a strap to keep them stable. Be sure that this security feature is correctly functioning since it is being used for the vital task to stop the tank from falling or shifting. A faulty restraining condition can lead to the tank coming loose and falling or rolling around dangerous.