Health and Safety Notice (June/2023)
Health and Safety Notice (June/2023)
LPG Forklift Truck Fire Risk
Several fires on, and around, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) powered forklift trucks and other
similar vehicles have occurred during starting. This is caused by the 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 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
The full safety notice can be viewed on the following
LPG forklift truck fire risk – Safety bulletin – HSE
For further news please see below link.
Latest Health & Safety Related News – Greens Consultancy
If you would like help in implementing or further advice this, please get in touch