Equipment
Safety

Tips for Working Around Propane-Powered Equipment on Construction Jobsites

Crews working around internal combustion engine-powered equipment, including propane, should be aware of dangers of CO, signs of CO poisoning, precautions to take and how different fuels affect their risk.
By Matt McDonald
July 20, 2021
Topics
Equipment
Safety

A component of safety that can often be overlooked is safety related to the fuels being used on-site. One alternative fuel that’s becoming more commonplace on jobsites is propane.

Propane’s portability and versatility makes it a valuable energy source for powering everything from jobsite heaters and portable generators to power buggies, scissor lifts and concrete construction equipment on jobsites.

Because of its growing popularity, it’s important for construction business owners and their crews to be familiar with safety procedures related to this energy source.

Educate Crews on Carbon Monoxide Safety

Crews working around internal combustion engine-powered equipment, including propane equipment, should be aware of the dangers of CO, the signs of CO poisoning, precautions they can take and how different fuels used on-site can affect their risk.

Fortunately, operating propane-powered equipment is a clean, safe alternative to gasoline- and diesel-powered small-engine jobsite applications that are often the culprit to employees getting sick. Propane, because of its low-emissions profile, can be safely operated indoors with proper ventilation, helping protect crews from dangerous carbon monoxide exposure. Another way for construction business owners to ensure crew safety is by properly maintaining their equipment, which includes completing routine oil changes, replacing air filters, installing a compliant three-way catalyst muffler and making sure the equipment has working CO auto-shutoff devices.

Notably, propane-powered small-engine jobsite applications can reduce carbon monoxide emissions by up to 50% compared with gasoline-fueled models, according to data from the Propane Education & Research Council. Additionally, propane is deemed an approved clean alternative fuel under the Clean Air Act and can help maintain healthy air quality on project sites.

It’s especially important to be aware of potential CO issues when using propane-powered equipment in an enclosed space. Crews should ensure the equipment is designed for indoor use and always make sure to have proper ventilation.

Brush Up on Propane Cylinder Handling Best Practices

First and foremost, it’s important to make sure crews know how to identify a propane leak. Propane is naturally odorless and nontoxic, so processors add a chemical odorant called ethyl mercaptan to help users detect leaks. If employees get a whiff of rotten eggs, there’s likely a leak, meaning they should turn off the propane supply and call their local propane supplier.

Additionally, knowing how to properly handle cylinders is critical to maintaining a safe workplace. Crews should use crash protection and bollards to prevent potential damage or denting to propane equipment, cylinders or containers and portable propane tanks should always be stored in the upright position on a flat, stable and fireproof base.

When propane equipment isn’t in use, crews should close the service valve on cylinders (by turning them clockwise) to prevent unintended fuel loss and potential injury. Secure cylinder storage cages can be placed on-site in a location that’s located a safe distance from heat or ignition sources and protected from exposure to the elements. When refilling propane cylinders on-site, safely do so outdoors or in an approved filling area, with the proper PPE.

Know Where (and How) to Store Propane Cylinders

There are general guidelines for proper placement of both temporary and permanent propane containers. Local propane suppliers can ensure propane container distance requirements are adhered to when installing a propane container in any location.

The size of a crew’s propane container determines the distance the container must remain from other hazards but, typically, containers require at least 10 feet of clearance from buildings. According to the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, containers between 125 and 500 gallons must be kept at least 10 feet from all ignition sources, combustible materials, building vents or air intake points, property lines of adjacent sites that can be built upon and key buildings, including the structure being built. Containers larger than 500 gallons should be at least 25 feet from property lines.

For construction crews new to operating with propane, or who just need a refresher on safety best practices, be sure to leverage local propane suppliers. Suppliers can work with crews to ensure the proper placement and handling of propane equipment, as well as offer additional safety training opportunities. To learn more about propane safety on construction jobsites, visit Propane.com/Construction-Safety.

by Matt McDonald
Matt McDonald is the director of off-road business development for the Propane Education & Research Council. He can be reached at matt.mcdonald@propane.com. To learn more about the benefits of propane for light construction equipment, visit Propane.com. Visit Propane.com for more information on propane-powered construction equipment. To download safety resources from PERC, visit Propane.com/Construction-Safety.

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