Propane Forklift Safety

We're All on a Mission for Zero Accidents

Even a single forklift accident is too many. The Mission Zero project is supporting pros like you to stay on the path to zero forklift accidents. Get started by watching the short video below.

Safety Reminders: Tip 1

One of the many parts of a forklift cylinder is the pressure relief valve, which provides overpressure protection to the cylinder. It should be kept clean, unrestricted, set to the 12 o’clock position, and directed upward at a 45-degree angle when the cylinder is mounted horizontally.

Safety Reminders: Tip 2

The seatbelt on forklifts is designed to protect the operator in case of tip-over, which is why it's essential to buckle up before getting to work.

Safety Reminders: Tip 3

To help prevent an accident, OSHA directs operators to stop the forklift and set the brake before raising or lowering the forks. Accidents can occur when approaching a load too fast or turning too rapidly.

Safety Reminders: Tip 4

Maintain a safe distance from the edge of ramps to prevent dangerous tip-over. When descending a ramp with a loaded forklift, always travel in reverse with the forklift and payload pointed up the grade. When traveling up a ramp with an unloaded forklift, always keep the forks pointed downgrade.

Safety Reminders: Tip 5

Avoid dangerous collisions at cross aisles, and anywhere else visibility of the forklift may be obstructed, by slowing down and sounding the horn.

Safety Reminders: Tip 6

Unless it's properly secured, an unattended forklift is a danger to the operator and others. When parking, follow proper safety procedures, including putting the forklift in neutral and lowering the forks to the floor.

Safety Reminders: Tip 7

When a propane forklift isn't in use, be sure to turn the service valve clockwise until it's completely closed.

Safety Reminders: Tip 8

Store the cylinders in a secure (padlocked) rack outside that protects them from sunlight and rain. Your propane supplier can assist you with the safe placement of your cylinder cage.

How Your Propane Supplier Keeps You Safe

Did you know the propane industry has dedicated procedures to support your safety?

Cylinders

Suppliers inspect cylinders each time they’re exchanged and remove damaged cylinders from service. It’s also a chance for suppliers to repair and replace leaky valves and O-rings on the cylinders as needed. Your supplier can help you identify the most convenient location for your cylinder cages so they don’t interfere with workflow.

Refueling

When you choose propane forklifts, you have choices for refueling — both of which your propane supplier can help you navigate safely. You can choose a cylinder exchange program, where your propane supplier refills the cylinders for you. Or you can choose on-site refueling, where trained members of your team refill cylinders themselves.

Training


Some propane suppliers offer additional safety training opportunities for forklift customers.

Download the Free Forklift Safety Toolkit

Get videos, a poster, handout, and more with safety reminders for your crew. It's a free toolkit to help you accomplish Mission Zero.
Download

Explore Forklift Safety