Lift Truck Tank Safety
One of the most common kinds of lift trucks available is a propane-powered unit. The propane is used to fuel these machinery and it has several properties that have to be considered when working with the fuel tank. It is extremely vital that PPE or Personal Protective Equipment is worn all the time to be safe.
Personal Protective Equipment or PPE
Propane gas is very cold. So cold in fact that exposure to your skin could cause serious burns to occur. Whenever you are exchanging the propane tank or re-fueling, be certain to wear goggles or a full face shield and thick gloves. PPE or Personal Protective Equipment is a requirement to be used on site in order to keep the driver as safe as possible. PPE or Personal Protective Equipment is a standard workplace requirement for most businesses utilizing this kind of equipment and if the operator does not have the correct things on, like steel-toe boots, a hardhat, goggles and all that than she or he might be prohibited from operating the equipment.
Inspect 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 important because when you are inserting the fuel line into an open valve, you will release the propane gas. This situation could 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 procedure to have implemented. Most companies have fire extinguishers located next to the refueling post. It is better to have one nearby and not require it, than to need one and not have one handy. Nearly all safety rules need this is set up on location as well.
Secure the Tank
The majority of propane tanks are strapped firmly into place by some type of strap or restraining device. Be sure that this device is properly working and properly used so that you could prevent the tank from falling or shifting, because this can also lead to a dangerous situation.