HSE Safety Alert - LPG forklift truck fire risk
Issue
HSE is aware of a number of fires on, and around, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) powered forklift trucks and other similar vehicles that have occurred during starting.
Outline of the problem
Build-up of deposits in fuel systems, in particular, the vaporiser units of LPG powered vehicles has led to a number of fires.
Trucks not starting due to sticking valves
Deposits in vaporiser units, flow regulators and shut off valves cause the truck to fail to start, particularly from cold. Build-up of deposits can lead to sticking valves and the mixture supplied to the engine being too rich to be ignited.
Repeated starting attempts can release unburned LPG
Repeated starting attempts can result in the release of unburned LPG, which in extreme cases can be ignited, setting fire to the vehicle and surrounding materials.
Action required
Operators
review your safe system of work in relation to the use of all LPG powered lift trucks and similar vehicles
provide information, instruction and training for all operators about the hazards raised in this alert
park LPG vehicles in well ventilated areas free from flammable material, particularly when parking overnight or for longer periods
If a truck does not start within the normal few seconds
do NOT continue to turn (crank) the engine over using the starter
do NOT repeat the normal engine starting procedure
do NOT spray volatile agents into the air intake in an attempt to aid starting
get off the truck and close the shut off valve to isolate the gas bottle
secure the truck to prevent further starting attempts
ensure the area is well ventilated
do NOT attempt to solve or repair the problem yourself, arrange for a competent maintenance engineer to do a check of the LPG system
Service and maintenance engineers
If you are presented with an LPG powered truck with a starting problem:
do NOT follow the normal starting procedure
isolate the LPG supply by closing the shut off valve
ensure that the area is well ventilated
disconnect the battery
release LPG pressure trapped in the fuel supply system
follow the manufacturer’s guidance for inspection of the LPG system
LPG is cold, take appropriate precautions when working with it. Once released LP gas is heavier than air and can pool in low lying areas, where it can be ignited by any source of ignition, including static electricity, electrical sparks and hot surfaces.