Forklift Tank Safety
Amongst the most popular kinds of lift trucks available on the market these days is a propane-powered forklift. The propane utilized to fuel these machines has several properties that should be taken into account when working with the fuel tank. For example, it is really essential that all Personal Protective Equipment or PPE is worn each and every time a driver is on the machinery and in numerous places, on the jobsite.
PPE
Propane gas is fairly cold and may cause serious burns to the skin if exposed, no matter how minor the exposure. Thus, it is a requirement that whenever 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. Numerous workplaces need steel-toe boots to be worn also when lifting heavy items is part of your responsibility. Every workplace has different rules set in place which pertain to the company's specific needs. Your supervisor would inform you of what kinds of PPE items have to be worn prior to your first shift.
No Smoking
In the refueling area, there could be no open flames or any kind of smoking going on due to the high flammability factor. Propane gas is extremely flammable and it is very essential that it is never exposed to any kind 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 accidentally insert the fuel line into an open valve, you would release the propane gas. Overlooking this factor can possibly create 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 available. The majority of companies require that a fire extinguisher be mounted on each and every lift truck. This is a really essential safety rule that should be made a priority within 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 working well as it is being utilized for the important task to stop the tank from falling or shifting. A faulty restraining situation can cause the tank coming loose and falling or rolling around dangerous.