handling power sources l
In this month’s Fact File, the Fork Lift Truck Association focuses on the key safety issues associated with LPG, diesel and battery trucks.
With power comes responsibility
R
efuelling plays an essential role in keeping fork lift trucks running smoothly. As with any source of power, there are elements of risk which
must be identified, assessed and managed to keep employees safe.
LPG engines
LPG engines produce a mixture of carbon dioxide and water vapour. Operating in poorly ventilated areas or running an improperly serviced engine may result in the production of toxic carbon monoxide, which may cause unconsciousness or death. It cannot be stressed enough that LPG engines should only be serviced by an LPG-trained engineer in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Always take care to ensure sufficient ventilation when working in confined spaces, such as lorries, containers and poorly ventilated buildings with low ceilings.
Storage is another key consideration. LPG readily evaporates into a gas, which – when mixed with air – can burn or explode when it meets a source of ignition. For safe storage: • Keep all cylinders in a safe, well- ventilated place, preferably in the open air and away from occupied
Below:
Don’t take risks! To prevent burns, protective clothing – including goggles – should always be worn when working with batteries and chargers.
buildings, boundaries and any sources of ignition or heat;
• Ensure that cylinders are properly secured and kept upright;
• Make sure that the area is kept clean, tidy and free of rubbish. Weeds and grass in the vicinity should be cut down. (Do not use a chlorate-based weed killer as it can be a fire hazard.)
• Display “NO SMOKING” signs and enforce the policy.
Lead-acid batteries
This single component – albeit a highly significant one – can be the source for a disproportionate number of potential hazards.
Lead-acid batteries produce hydrogen and oxygen. When the hydrogen concentration exceeds 4% it is a potentially explosive mixture. A good ventilation system, which keeps the concentration below 1%, is the first prerequisite of safety.
Sparks and shorts can ignite explosive gases and cause shocks and burns. To prevent these: • Use insulated tools and lifting equipment;
• Remove metallic objects from pockets, and all jewellery;
• Regularly carry out recorded inspections for all cables and connectors;
• Follow correct charging procedure; • Wear protective clothing.
All work involving chargers should be carried out by properly qualified personnel only. Chargers should be isolated and locked off beforehand. Electrolyte spills and splashes can burn and irritate the eyes and skin, and can lead to corrosion of
30 ShD February 2012
www.PressOnShD.com Diesel engines
Operating fork lift trucks in any confined space may generate dangerous levels of poisonous fumes. As important as this is, there is no simple way to detect what is going on, especially if work patterns vary. It is very important, therefore, that the risks are understood.
Diesel engines may produce white smoke, especially when cold. Excessive blue or black smoke may indicate that maintenance is required. These fumes – even when almost invisible – contain carcinogenic substances which may cause health problems, including eye irritation or respiratory issues. As with all fuel sources, good ventilation is the solution. For low- intensity applications, a few open windows may be sufficient. High- intensity operations may require fans or extraction equipment. Whatever the circumstances, risk assessments should be carried out and implemented. Free fact sheets covering these topics, alongside a host of others answering common fork lift truck queries, can be downloaded at:
www.fork-truck.org.uk/fact-sheets
This information, which is by no means exhaustive, highlights some of the most important safety concerns regarding fork lift truck power sources. For more specific information related to your operations, contact your local fork lift truck dealer.
essential structures. As a general rule: • Keep battery upright. • Never overfill. • Wear protective clothing. When spills onto clothing or skin occur, wash off immediately using plenty of water. If there is contact with the eyes, flood with fresh water and seek urgent medical attention. If electrolyte spills onto floors or equipment, neutralise with an alkali before disposing of safely.
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