Lift Truck Tank Safety
One of the most common kinds of lift trucks available on the market nowadays is a propane-powered lift truck. The propane used to fuel these equipment has several properties that should be taken into consideration when working with the fuel tank. For instance, it is important that all Personal Protective Equipment or PPE is worn each time an operator is on the machinery and in many places, on the jobsite.
PPE
Propane gas is fairly cold and may cause severe burns to the skin if exposed, no matter how minor the contact. 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 should be worn for protection. Lots of workplaces require steel-toe boots to be worn as well when lifting heavy objects is part of your responsibility. Every workplace has different rules set in place which pertain to the specific requirements of the company. The supervisor will inform you of what kinds of PPE things must be worn before your shift starts.
No Smoking
Due to the high flammability factor, there can definitely be no open flames or any type of smoking going on in the re-fueling area. Propane gas is highly flammable and it is vital that it is never exposed to any type 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 prior to connecting the fuel line when exchanging the fuel tank. If you inadvertently insert the fuel line into a valve that is open, you will release the propane gas. Neglecting this factor can potentially result in a very catastrophic situation.
Fire Extinguisher
Whenever the tank is being changed out or during the re-fueling process, a fire extinguisher must be made accessible. The majority of companies require that a fire extinguisher be mounted on each forklift. This is an important safety regulation that must be made a priority in 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 functioning properly because it is being used for the vital task to stop the tank from falling or shifting. A faulty restraining condition could lead to the tank coming loose and falling or rolling around dangerous.