View original at www.dcvelocity.com

Raise the standard for safe, smooth operation by keeping these safety tips top of mind. Propane forklifts offer reliable performance, increased productivity, versatility, and lower emissions for a variety of material handling operations, which is why they’re often called upon to work around the clock to keep businesses on schedule. For all their benefits, though, forklifts and other powered industrial trucks bring with them various potential hazards that can endanger both pedestrians and operators. Forklifts need to be operated safely in order to prevent time-loss accidents. By following forklift safety procedures while behind the wheel, operators can protect themselves and co-workers. Safe operation of propane-powered forklifts also goes hand in hand with greater productivity. Maximize safety by reinforcing these 10 simple steps: 1. Buckle up. Overturned forklifts are a leading cause of forklift-related accidents and fatalities. Buckling up while a sitdown forklift is in use can save operators from getting crushed by the machine’s overhead guard or roll cage. 2. Inspect propane cylinders prior to operation. Thoroughly inspect the forklift’s propane cylinders after removal from a storage cage to ensure they’re in good condition. Check cylinders for rust, dents, and gouges. Use your senses of smell, hearing, and sight to check for leaks in the cylinder. Cylinders that show signs of wear or leaks should not be used and may need to be replaced even if within the cylinder’s requalification date. 3. Stop the forklift before raising or lowering the forks. Ensuring the forklift is stopped before moving the forks can greatly reduce the risk of tipping the machine or dropping the load. 4. Set the parking brake, lower the forks, and set controls to neutral when finished. Safely parked forklifts reduce the danger of unintended movement when a forklift is left unattended. If a forklift is parked on […]