Lift Truck Tank Safety
One of the most common kinds of lift trucks offered on the market these days is a propane-powered lift truck. The propane utilized to fuel these machines has several properties which 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 every time a driver is on the machine and in a lot of places, on the jobsite.
PPE
Propane gas is quite cold and may cause severe burns to the skin if exposed, no matter how minor the exposure. Therefore, it is a requirement that whenever you are exchanging the propane tank or completing a re-fueling process a full face shield or safety goggles and thick gloves need to be worn for protection. Numerous workplaces require steel-toe boots to be worn also when carrying heavy items is part of your job. Each and every workplace has different rules set in place which pertain to the particular requirements of the company. Your supervisor will inform you of what PPE objects must be worn prior to your starting your shift.
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 very flammable and it is imperative that it is never exposed to any type of ignition source or a very dangerous exploding situation will 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 which is open, propane gas would be released. Neglecting this factor could possibly create a very terrible situation.
Fire Extinguisher
Whenever the tank is being changed out or during the re-fueling process, a fire extinguisher must be made accessible. Nearly all businesses require that a fire extinguisher be mounted on each and every forklift. This is an important safety regulation which should be made a priority in the workplace.
Secure the Tank
The majority of propane tanks use a restraining device like a strap to keep them stable. Be certain that this security feature is correctly functioning because it is being used for the important task to stop the tank from falling or shifting. A faulty restraining condition could cause the tank falling or coming loose or rolling around dangerous.