Lift Truck Tank Safety
Among the most common kinds of lift trucks offered on the market these days is a propane-powered lift truck. The propane used to fuel these machinery has several properties that must be taken into consideration when working with the fuel tank. Like for example, it is really important that all Personal Protective Equipment or PPE is worn each time an operator is on the machinery and in lots of places, on the jobsite.
PPE
Propane gas is fairly cold and can result in 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 need to be worn for protection. Numerous workplaces need steel-toe boots to be worn also when carrying heavy items is part of your responsibility. Each workplace has various rules set in place that pertain to the company's particular requirements. Your supervisor would inform you of what PPE objects should be worn before your first shift.
No Smoking
Due to the high flammability factor, there can definitely be no open fire or any kind of smoking going on in the re-fueling area. Propane gas is highly ignitable and it is imperative that it is never exposed to any kind of ignition source or a very dangerous exploding situation will unfold.
Inspect the Valve
Make certain that the valve on the new tank is turned off prior to connecting the fuel line when exchanging the fuel tank. If you accidentally insert the fuel line into a valve that is open, you would release the propane gas. Neglecting this factor could possibly result in a really catastrophic situation.
Fire Extinguisher
When the tank is being changed out or during the re-fueling process, a fire extinguisher must be made available. Nearly all businesses require that a fire extinguisher be mounted on each lift truck. This is a really important safety regulation that must 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 sure that this security feature is correctly functioning since it is being utilized for the vital task to prevent the tank from shifting or falling. A faulty restraining condition can lead to the tank coming loose and falling or rolling around dangerous.