LPG FLT Safety Alert

The UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA) recently published a safety alert regarding possible fire risks associated with LPG forklifts. This alert is to raise awareness of problems starting LPG powered trucks from cold due to a build-up of deposits in the ignition system. Unburnt LPG passing through the truck’s engine could cause a fire risk. The safety alert gives advice to operators on what to do.

Investigations are ongoing but It has been suggested that this is due to the use of lower quality LPG with higher than usual levels of contaminants.

The safety alert gives advice to operators on what to do:

• Do NOT continue to crank the engine over
• Do NOT repeat the normal engine starting procedure
• Do NOT spray volatile agents into the air intake in an attempt to aid starting
• Secure the truck against further starting attempts
• Close the shut-off valve on the gas bottle
• Ensure the area is well ventilated
• Contact your truck supplier and request a check of the LPG system on your truck

The UKMHA also provide additional advice for maintenance engineers working on LPG forklifts with starting problems.

Full details of the safety alert can be found on the UKMHA’s website at: https://ukmha.org.uk/advice-centre/best-practice-advice/ukmha-safety-alerts/

If you have any questions or would like support with managing issues at your workplace, please speak to your usual contact or get in touch using the form below.