Lift Truck Tank Safety
Among the most common kinds of lift trucks offered on the market today is a propane-powered lift truck. The propane used to fuel these machines has several properties that should be taken into account when working with the fuel tank. For instance, it is very essential that all PPE or Personal Protective Equipment is worn every time a driver is on the equipment and in many areas, on the jobsite.
PPE
Because propane gas is very cold, any exposure to your skin, no matter how minor, could result in serious burns. Therefore, it is required that whenever you are exchanging the propane tank or completing a re-fueling process a full face shield or safety goggles and thick gloves should be worn for protection. Many workplaces require steel-toe boots to be worn too when carrying heavy items is part of your job. Each and every workplace has various rules set in place which pertain to the particular needs of the company. Your supervisor would inform you of what kinds of PPE objects should be worn before your shift starts.
No Smoking
In the refueling area, there can be no open flames or any type of smoking going on because of the high flammability factor. Propane gas is highly ignitable and it is vital that it is never exposed to any kind of ignition source or an extremely 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, you would release the propane gas. Overlooking this factor can possibly create a really disastrous situation.
Fire Extinguisher
Whenever the tank is being changed out or during the re-fueling process, a fire extinguisher should be made accessible. The majority of businesses require that a fire extinguisher be mounted on each lift truck. This is an important safety regulation which should be made a priority within the workplace.
Secure the Tank
The majority of propane tanks would use a restraining device like a strap or bracket to keep the tank stable. Be sure that this security feature is functioning correctly as it is being utilized for the important task to prevent the tank from shifting or falling. A faulty restraining situation could cause the tank coming loose and falling or rolling around dangerous.