Safety Precautions for Using Propane for Forklifts

Propane-fueled forklifts are constantly present in warehouses, manufacturing plants, and distribution facilities in the US, and for a good reason. Propane for forklifts is cost-effective and ensures full power throughout operation. It helps reduce a company’s carbon footprint, too. The US Environmental Protection Agency found that a propane-fueled vehicle generates 30 to 90 percent less carbon monoxide and approximately 50 percent fewer toxins and other emissions that can produce smog compared to gasoline engines. The fuel is nontoxic, too, but there are certain safety precautions operators and businesses must practice when using propane forklifts. Here are some of them:

• Wear appropriate clothing – Qualified forklift operators must wear the right clothing, such as a hard hat, hi-visibility jackets, safety shoes, and clothes that fit well, as loose garments could get caught on the vehicle.
• Check the forklift before use – Equipment must be checked routinely before use. Check for problems on the brakes, warning devices, controls, steering, tires, and the mast.
• Be responsible – Never operate the propane forklift past its speed limit, slowly turn on corners to prevent tipping, and stop or maneuver slowly and gradually.
• Replacing a cylinder must be performed only by a qualified professional – Propane for forklifts is stored in tanks or cylinders that are attached to the vehicle. According to the Propane Education and Research Council, changing the cylinder should only be done by properly trained professionals who know all the safety procedures. This person should wear personal protective equipment such as gloves, as contact with liquid propane could result in frostbite. Safety glasses must be worn, too.

• Check the manual – Forklift manufacturers recommend reading the manual they provide with their vehicles for model-specific safety precautions and handling tips.

• Follow proper protocol for empty cylinder removal – Make sure the forklift is parked and properly braked in a safe area and that the engine is switched off. Shut the service valve of the propane cylinder by turning it clockwise. Turn the female quick-connect fitting counter-clockwise to disconnect it from the male quick-connect. Disconnect the toggle clamp securing the propane cylinder to the vehicle, and lift the cylinder properly off the forklift.
• Be conscious of the smell of rotten eggs – Propane is a colorless and odorless gas, but manufacturers who make propane for forklifts add a distinct smell for easy leak detection. The smell is similar to rotten eggs, a dead animal, or skunk spray.

• Shut all propane valves when not in use – After a day’s shift, make sure that the forklift’s engine is off and that the fuel valves are closed.

Diesel, Electric, or Propane Gas Forklift – Which Is the Best Solution for Your Forklift?

Forklifts can be valuable investments for a large storage facility or a warehouse. However, their source of power should be determined to ensure that they are safe to use, they can enhance productivity, and that they can help you save money in the long run. Electric and diesel-powered forklifts may be popular, but you can go for propane for forklifts, too. In fact, a propane-powered forklift may be the best choice for you. Here’s why:

• Safer – Propane forklifts are designed with automatic shut-off systems to stop the fuel from flowing in case of an emergency or an accident. Likewise, they are manufactured to meet national safety standards and specifications.
• Environment-friendly – Propane for forklifts is a good choice if your business is making efforts to go green. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is clean-burning and non-toxic, and it releases lesser amounts of carbon monoxide compared to diesel and gasoline. It will not harm water or soil. Propane itself is an approved clean fuel that is listed in the Clean Air Act and Energy Policy Act, and it was found that propane-fueled vehicles produce around 50 percent less smog-producing emissions and toxins than other fuels.
• Low-cost – As long as you work with a reputable and seasoned LPG supplier, you can have a constant supply of full tanks, and get a ‘never-run-out’ guarantee. Some suppliers offer payment plans that may help businesses save more money on LPG, too.
• Efficient – Propane for forklifts can help improve your productivity as you only need to replace the tank or cylinder in the vehicle instead of charging the forklift, a process that can take a lot of time. On average, a full tank can let the forklift run for up to eight hours of continuous use. Workers can simply replace the tank after every shift.
• Low-maintenance – Propane forklifts have a lengthier service life, as they do not require regular cleaning of engine deposits. With minimal maintenance, you can save money in the long run, too.