Lift Truck Tank Safety
Amongst the most common types of forklifts available on the market these days is a propane-powered lift truck. The propane utilized to fuel these equipment has several properties which must be taken into consideration when working with the fuel tank. For example, it is really important that all Personal Protective Equipment or PPE is worn each time a driver is on the machine and in many places, on the jobsite.
PPE
Propane gas is fairly cold and can lead to severe burns to the skin if exposed, no matter how minor the exposure. Therefore, it is a requirement that when you are exchanging the propane tank or completing a re-fueling process a full face shield or safety goggles and thick gloves have to be worn for protection. Many workplaces require steel-toe boots to be worn too when carrying heavy items is part of your job. Each workplace has various rules set in place which pertain to the company's particular needs. The supervisor would inform you of what PPE objects should be worn before your shift begins.
No Smoking
In the refueling area, there could be no open flames or any kind of smoking going on because of the high flammability factor. Propane gas is highly flammable and it is really vital that it is never exposed to any type of ignition source or an extremely dangerous exploding situation will 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 inadvertently insert the fuel line into an open valve, propane gas would be released. Overlooking this factor can possibly lead to a very disastrous situation.
Fire Extinguisher
Whenever 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 each and every forklift. This is a really important safety rule that must be made a priority within the workplace.
Secure the Tank
The majority of propane tanks would use a restraining device such as a strap or bracket to keep the tank stable. Be certain that this security feature is correctly working since it is being utilized for the vital task to prevent the tank from falling or shifting. A faulty restraining condition can lead to the tank falling or coming loose or rolling around dangerous.