Forklift Tank Safety
Amongst the most common types of lift trucks offered on the market nowadays is a propane-powered lift truck. The propane used to fuel these equipment has several properties that must be taken into consideration when working with the fuel tank. For instance, it is essential that all Personal Protective Equipment or PPE is worn each time a driver is on the equipment and in numerous areas, on the jobsite.
PPE
Because propane gas is extremely cold, any exposure to your skin, no matter how minor, can lead to serious burns. Therefore, it is required that when you are exchanging the propane tank or completing a re-fueling process a complete face shield or safety goggles and thick gloves must be worn for protection. A lot of workplaces require steel-toe boots to be worn too when carrying heavy objects is part of your task. Every workplace has different rules set in place which pertain to the company's particular requirements. Your supervisor will inform you of what types of PPE objects need to be worn before your first shift.
No Smoking
In the refueling zone, there could be no open fire or any kind of smoking going on because of the high flammability factor. Propane gas is extremely flammable and it is very imperative that it is never exposed to any type of ignition source or a very dangerous exploding situation will unfold.
Check the Valve
Make certain that the valve on the new tank is turned off before connecting the fuel line when exchanging the fuel tank. If you accidentally insert the fuel line into an open valve, propane gas would be released. Neglecting this factor could possibly lead to a very disastrous situation.
Fire Extinguisher
When the tank is being changed out or during the re-fueling process, a fire extinguisher must be made available. Most businesses require that a fire extinguisher be mounted on each and every lift truck. This is a really important safety rule which should be made a priority within the workplace.
Secure the Tank
Most propane tanks utilize a restraining device like a strap to keep them stable. Be certain that this security feature is correctly functioning since it is being used for the important task to stop the tank from shifting or falling. A faulty restraining situation can lead to the tank coming loose and falling or rolling around dangerous.