Lift Truck Tank Safety
Amongst the most common types of forklifts available is a propane-powered unit. The propane is used to fuel these machinery and it has some properties that need to be considered when working with the fuel tank. It is very important that PPE or Personal Protective Equipment is worn at all times in order to be safe.
Personal Protective Equipment or PPE
Propane is a really cold gas. It is too cold to touch because skin exposure can lead to severe burns. When you are exchanging the propane tank or re-fueling, be certain to put on a full face shield or goggles and thick gloves. PPE is a requirement to be utilized on location so as to keep the driver as safe as possible. PPE or Personal Protective Equipment is a standard workplace requirement for the majority of businesses using this type of machine and if the driver does not have the right items on, like for example a hardhat, safety goggles, steel-toe boots and all that than he or she would be banned from using the machine.
Check the Valve
If you are in the process of exchanging the tank, be certain that the valve on the new tank is definitely turned off before connecting the fuel line. This is very vital because when you are inserting the fuel line into an open valve, you would release the propane gas. This condition can create a potentially hazardous condition.
Fire Extinguisher
One more vital safety procedure to have implemented is to have a fire extinguisher nearby when fuel is being added or when the tank is being changed. The majority of companies have fire extinguishers located near the refueling post. It is better to have one nearby and not need it, than to require one and not have one nearby. Most safety rules need this is set up on site also.
Secure the Tank
Nearly all propane tanks have either a restraining device or a strap to secure the tank to the machine. Be certain that this device is correctly working and correctly used so that you could prevent the tank from falling or shifting, because this could also result in a hazardous condition.