Safe Operating of Propane Forklifts

Written on: April 1, 2024

10 Tips for Propane Forklift Safety

From powerful performance advantages to time-saving convenience and efficiency, propane forklifts are workhorses that help you keep your operation running smoothly, with significant savings over diesel or electricity. While propane is extremely safe when handled properly, any heavy equipment can be dangerous if not operated correctly.

Don’t let complacency derail your team’s safety: hold regular briefings and trainings to make sure seasoned employees as well as newbies are operating equipment properly.

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. Safety belts protect the driver in the event of a tip-over. Always buckle up.
3. Always come to a full stop before raising or lowering the forks.
4. Slow down and tap the horn when approaching corners, intersecting aisles or anywhere visibility is obstructed.
5. Turn the service valve clockwise until it is completely closed, and leave the forks down when a forklift is not in use.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
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.

Maintenance Is Key

Keeping your forklift equipment in good condition is critical for safe operation. Maintenance should include regular inspections of key components, such as the brakes, steering, and propane system, to ensure they are in working properly. Any problems should be addressed promptly by a qualified technician.

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

But your team should also do a check each day before starting the engine—like a pilot before every flight.

Supplier Support

When it comes to refilling cylinders, the safest and most efficient option is to use a cylinder exchange program that makes sure your cylinders are filled properly and are in good condition.

The pros at Georgia Gas Distributors will 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 Georgia Gas Distributors is the first choice for commercial propane and forklift cylinder exchange in the metro-Atlanta area. Contact us for more information today.