What should an operator do when handling a propane fuel cylinder?
LPG stands for Liquid Petroleum Gas.
- context Before handling the cylinder, make sure the valve is properly closed.
- context Handle the cylinder gently. Inspect the cylinder for damage before each use, and after it is dropped, dented, or impacted.
- context Always protect the valve from damage.
- context Avoid skin contact with liquid propane as it may cause frostbite.
- context Wear the appropriate protective gloves while connecting or disconnecting a cylinder to equipment.
- context Exchange removable cylinders outdoors or in well-ventilated areas, away from sources of ignition.
- context Close the cylinder valve before disconnecting the cylinder from forklifts.
- context Make sure that only qualified persons repair cylinders and forklift fuel systems.
- context For repairs, use only components that agencies such as the CSA Group (Canadian Standards Association) have approved.
What steps should operators follow when changing fuel tanks?
Procedure for changing propane (LPG) cylinders:
- context Park the forklift in a low-traffic and well-ventilated area. Put forklift controls
into the neutral position. Lower the forks to the ground and apply the
parking brake.
- context Wear eye protection and gloves such as leather or insulated neoprene.
- context With the forklift engine running, dismount the forklift and close the valve on
the cylinder.
- context Run the engine until it is out of fuel, and it stops. This step ensures that the fuel supply hose is empty.
- context Turn the ignition key to the off position.
- context Disconnect the fuel supply hose from the cylinder.
- context Undo the latch or straps that secure the cylinder to the forklift.
- context Remove the empty cylinder using both hands (empty cylinders can be
heavy).
- context Inspect the replacement cylinder for damage. Do not use damaged
cylinders. Tag them for repair and store them safely.
- context Lift the replacement cylinder into position using a proper lifting technique. Adjust the cylinder until it is properly aligned with the positioning pin to ensure the pressure relief valve is orientated correctly.
- context Secure the cylinder to the forklift.
- context Connect the fuel supply hose to the cylinder. Do not use tools because the
valve is designed to be tightened by hand.
- context Smell(for a rotten egg smell)
- context Listen (for gas escaping or hissing)
- context Look (for frost or bubbles if using a solution)
- context Open the valve on the cylinder slowly and check for leaks. A one to two-second hissing sound is normal and any longer indicates a leak. If available, use a soap and water solution or a leak detector.
- context Remove the hose, and check the valve and hose connections for dirt and debris.
- context Reconnect the hose and check for leaks again. If the leak persists, try a fresh cylinder.
- context Reconnect the hose and check for leaks again. If the leak persists, put the forklift out of service.
- context Tag any defective cylinders, hoses, or components for repair by qualified persons.
- context If you detect a leak, close the valve and:
- context If no leaks are detected, slowly open the valve fully.
- context Make sure the hose is not kinked, twisted, or unsafely sticking out from the forklift.
- context Start the engine and resume operation.