Warning over operating forklift trucks in explosive atmospheres

To ensure vehicle safety in explosive atmospheres, process operators must use appropriately trained engineers for planned and unplanned maintenance, follow service schedules and carry out EX-ASAs, explains Robin Chapman, principal engineer for Pyroban’s Safe Handling division:

London - An increasing number of forklift trucks are required to operate in potentially explosive atmospheres. In such high risk operations, companies need to be sure that their service engineers are trained to maintain EX-protected equipment to ensure that the site and employees are fully protected. Explosion protection company Pyroban insists that operations managers must understand the risks associated with maintenance by engineers who do not have the proper training.

In a potentially explosive atmosphere found in industries such as the chemical or food and drinks industry, one spark from a forklift truck component is all it could take to create an explosion. In order to operate safely in an explosive atmosphere, forklift trucks must be modified to meet the requirements of ATEX and be maintained by a specifically trained engineer.

Firstly, it is important to use engineers that are trained specifically on the explosion proof system. Planned and unplanned maintenance requires specialist knowledge and a full understanding of both explosion protection and site safety. Untrained engineers have no idea what they are dealing with and within minutes can jeopardise the safety of the site. Forklift dealers’ engineers should be trained to carry out the service and maintenance of the explosion proof trucks, particularly as they are usually local and can respond quickly to any service related calls.

In line with current legislation, all forklift trucks are legally required to undergo a Thorough Examination, which is very similar to an automotive MOT in principle. Lift trucks that are fitted with explosion protection are now also required by law to undergo an annual safety audit and maintain the vehicle and its equipment to ensure DSEAR safety requirements are met.

The safety and financial risks posed in a potentially explosive atmosphere are very serious. It is important that all companies are aware of the risks and how to avoid them simply by employing the right staff, applying the correct training and managing the trucks efficiently.