Lift Truck Tank Safety
The propane powered lift truck is amongst the most common types of lift trucks. These machines are powered by propane, which come with some considerations which must be accounted for. It is extremely essential that Personal Protective Equipment or also called PPE is worn all the time so as to be safe.
PPE or Personal Protective Equipment
Propane is a very cold gas. It is too cold to touch since skin contact can lead to severe burns. Whenever you are re-fueling or exchanging the propane tank, be certain to wear thick gloves and goggles or a full face shield. Personal Protective Equipment or PPE is a requirement to be used on location in order to keep the operator as safe as possible. Personal Protective Equipment or PPE is a standard workplace requirement for most companies using this type of machinery and if the driver does not have the correct things on, like a hardhat, safety goggles, steel-toe boots et cetera than he or she might be prohibited from operating the machine.
Check the Valve
Prior to connecting the fuel line in the process of exchanging the tank, make sure that the new tanks valve is turned off. This is very essential because when you are inserting the fuel line into an open valve, you would release the propane gas. This condition could create 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 important safety measure to have implemented. Nearly all companies have fire extinguishers situated close to the refueling station. It is better to have one nearby and not require it, than to need one and not have one handy. Nearly all safety regulations need this is set up on location as well.
Secure the Tank
The majority of propane tanks have either a strap or a restraining device to secure the tank to the machinery. Be sure that this device is working correctly and correctly utilized so that you could prevent the tank from falling or shifting, because this can also result in a dangerous condition.