Lift Truck Tank Safety
The propane powered lift truck is one of the most common kinds of lift trucks. These machinery are powered by propane, which come with certain considerations which should be accounted for. It is extremely vital that PPE or Personal Protective Equipment is worn all the time so as to be safe.
PPE
Propane gas is very cold. Very cold in fact that exposure to your skin can cause serious burns to happen. When you are exchanging the propane tank or re-fueling, be certain to wear thick gloves and goggles or a full face shield. PPE is a requirement to be utilized on location in order to keep the driver as safe as possible. Personal Protective Equipment or PPE is a standard workplace requirement for most companies utilizing this type of equipment and if the operator does not have the right items on, like a hardhat, safety goggles, steel-toe boots etc. than she or he would be prohibited from operating the machinery.
Inspect the Valve
Prior to connecting the fuel line in the process of exchanging the tank, make sure that the new tanks valve is turned off. This is extremely vital because when you are inserting the fuel line into an open valve, you will release the propane gas. This situation can create a potentially hazardous condition.
Fire Extinguisher
Having a fire extinguisher available during the time the tank is being changed out or when re-fueling is occurring is another important safety procedure to have implemented. The majority of companies have fire extinguishers located near the refueling station. It is better to have one close by and not require it, than to require one and not have one handy. Nearly all safety regulations need this is set up on location as well.
Secure the Tank
Nearly all propane tanks have either a restraining device or a strap to secure the tank to the machinery. Be sure that this device is working properly and utilized correctly so that you could prevent the tank from falling or shifting, as this can also lead to a hazardous situation.