Safe Operating of Propane Forklifts

Written on: August 26, 2024

10 Tips for Propane Forklift Safety

Loading docks, warehouses, construction sites, no matter how you use them for your business, you know that your propane forklifts are workhorses that save time, improve efficiency, and keep your operation running smoothly. But any heavy equipment can be dangerous if not operated correctly, and while propane is extremely safe, it does require safety measures, like any fuel.

Make sure your seasoned employees as well as new hires stay aware of proper forklift operation. Holding regular safety briefings and trainings can help make sure complacency doesn’t result in dangerous mistakes.

Forklift Safety Tips

Here are 10 important tips for safe operation of propane forklifts:

1. Make sure the pressure valve is clean. It should be in the 12 o’clock position when the tank is installed upright, and pointing up or at a 45-degree angle when the cylinder is installed horizontally.
2. When operating indoors, be sure the area is well ventilated to prevent buildup of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly in high concentrations. Use carbon monoxide detectors in warehouses and other enclosed work areas.
3. Turn the service valve clockwise until it is completely closed, and leave the forks down when a forklift is not in use.
4. Refuel safely. Always shut off the engine and allow it to cool down. Be sure the propane cylinder is properly secured when you replace it.
5. Always come to a full stop before raising or lowering the forks.
6. Slow down and tap the horn when approaching corners, intersecting asiles or anywhere visibility is obstructed.
7. Secure loads before raising forks or moving the forklift. Never exceed the rated load capacity, and avoid sudden movements to prevent loads from shifting or falling.
8. Safety belts protect the driver in the event of a tip-over. Always buckle up.
9. Store propane cylinders safely. We will provide you with a secure, lockable cage that should be kept outdoors, protected from sunlight and rain, and train your employees in safe handling and storage of propane cylinders.
10. Do not smoke anywhere near your propane cylinder storage or forklifts and do not store propane near any source of ignition or spark such as welding equipment.

Practice Good Maintenance

Keeping your forklift equipment in good condition is important to ensure safe operation. Teach your team to do a check each day before starting the engine—like a pilot before every flight. Make sure tanks are installed correctly, valves are clean, etc.

Generally, propane forklifts should get a thorough tune-up annually or every 2000 hours, whichever comes first. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for a tune-up schedule for your specific equipment.

Regular maintenance should include inspections and testing of brakes, steering, and propane systems. Any problems should be addressed promptly by a qualified technician.

Strong Supplier Support

The safest and most efficient option for refilling forklift cylinders is to use an exchange program that makes sure your cylinders are filled properly and are in good condition. Pico’s forklift cylinder exchange program is designed to keep your business running smoothly. Our experts will work with you to evaluate your needs and set up a customized program and delivery schedule—daily, weekly, monthly, or will-call—and then set you up with sturdy, safe storage cages for your cylinders. We’ll thoroughly train your workers in the safe handling of propane cylinders. And you’ll get the cylinders you need, when you need them.

Having a great team—both internal and external—can make a big difference in safety. Find out why Pico is the first choice for commercial propane and forklift cylinder exchange in the Miami-Ft. Lauderdale area. Contact us for more information today.