![]() One difficulty in diagnosing CO poisoning is that many of these symptoms are similar to common sicknesses, such as the flu (without the fever, of course). Here, from public health authorities in Massachusetts and Washington State, is a list of what to watch out for: Proper diagnosis and speedy treatment is essential, as damage to the body’s vital organs increases as the exposure is prolonged. Personal detectors, also with alarms, are available for workers not in a fixed location.Įqually important, say the experts, is training your workforce on the signs of CO poisoning, and on what to do should it occur. ▪ Use electric-powered material movers indoors.Īlso recommended: Placing CO detectors with audible alarms anywhere fuel-burning devices are operated, especially indoors. ![]() ▪ Replace older model forklifts with newer ones, which are far more efficient, even in stock condition. These are often a direct fit on popular brands of trucks. ▪ Add aftermarket pollution control systems, such as catalytic converters. One expert recommends a tune up every 250 hours of operation. Well-maintained engines emit a fraction of the noxious gases that those out of adjustment do. ▪ If the devices must be operated in enclosed areas, provide adequate forced ventilation (just windows and doors open are not enough.) ▪ Avoid operating in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces. Show them with action footage on DVD in BLR’s Training Solutions Toolkit: Forklift Safety. These include:ĭon’t just tell forklift operators what to do. There are, however, ways to minimize the danger. Even at low levels, exposure can quickly be fatal.Īll fuel-powered forklifts emit this gas, as do any similarly powered devices such as generators, compressors, and some power tools. The key danger is carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless, tasteless, odorless gas that takes over the body’s oxygen supply, in effect, suffocating your body’s systems. ![]() Yesterday’s Advisor initiated a discussion of the dangers posed by the exhaust gases of gasoline, propane, or LPG-powered forklifts. Here’s a list, and steps to take if this colorless, odorless, silent killer is suspected. Anyone working around gas-powered forklifts or other gas, propane or LPG-fueled machines needs to know the symptoms of CO poisoning.
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