Forklift Tank Safety
The propane powered forklift is among the most popular kinds of forklifts. These machines are powered by propane, that come with some considerations that must be accounted for. It is important that Personal Protective Equipment or also called PPE is worn all the time to be safe.
PPE or Personal Protective Equipment
Propane gas is very cold. Very cold in fact that exposure to your skin can cause serious burns to happen. Whenever you are re-fueling or exchanging the propane tank, be sure to wear thick gloves and goggles or a full face shield. PPE is a requirement to be used on location in order to keep the operator as safe as possible. PPE or Personal Protective Equipment is a standard workplace requirement for most businesses using this type of equipment and if the operator does not have the right items on, like a hardhat, safety goggles, steel-toe boots and so on than he or she would be forbidden from operating the machinery.
Check the Valve
If you are in the process of exchanging the tank, be certain that the valve on the new tank is absolutely turned off before connecting the fuel line. This is really vital because when you are inserting the fuel line into an open valve, you would release the propane gas. This condition can lead to a potentially hazardous situation.
Fire Extinguisher
Having a fire extinguisher available during the time the tank is being changed out or when re-fueling is occurring is one more vital safety measure to have implemented. The majority of businesses have fire extinguishers located near the refueling post. It is better to have one nearby and not require it, than to require one and not have one handy. The majority of safety rules require this is set up on site too.
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 working correctly and utilized properly so that you can prevent the tank from falling or shifting, since this could also result in a hazardous situation.