There are a number of ongoing certification requirements which LPG and CNG forklifts must adhere to, one of which is a comprehensive annual inspection. Australian Standards AS 4983-2010 stipulates the legislation for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) powered forklifts and other industrial equipment, which includes a scheduled annual check to cover any deterioration that remains unnoticed.

All LPG systems require certification prior to being put into service, but an annual inspection must be passed for a successful renewal. If the forklift does not meet the required standard, the certification will no longer be valid.

Here is a summary of what is to be checked in an annual inspection of LPG and CNG forklifts for certification:

Leakage

• In accordance with clauses 7.6 and 7.8.3

Container identity (CNG)

• Matching serial numbers on fuel container and refueling information plate
• Containers not tampered with or modified in any way

Fuel container life

• Check of date stamp or life expiry date in relation to the next annual inspection and pursuit of re-inspection and recertification (LPG) or removal and disposal (CNG) if required

Container recertification date (CNG)

• Check of date stamp in relation to retest date and recertification date

Fuel container damage

• Dents, fire damage, fatigue, bulging, cuts or gouges, sharp impressions or creases on the container body, protective fittings, mountings, compartments, sub-compartments, pipework, heat shields or guards

Fuel container corrosion

• Especially in areas such as those susceptible to water accumulation, drip lines, clamping bands and release bands.

Container attachment

• Corrosion, impact damage, abrasion, rust, cracks and metal fatigue
• Tightness and condition of loose bands, wear under bands and fasteners
• Correct orientation of fuel container
• Adjustment of quick release container bands

Automatic fill limiter (LPG)

• Accuracy of fill limiter

Safety fuel shut off system (LPG)

• Proper function of automatic fuel shut-off devices or excess-flow valves

Fuel control systems

• Proper function of fuel shut-off devices and fuel changeover systems

Manual valves

• Function of valves
• Leakage around connections

Compartment or sub-compartment

• Structural damage, deterioration, kinking, punctures, leakage

Refuelling connection

• Integrity of dust cap
• Damage or contamination of connections
• Housing properly attached
• Deformity of remote fill line

Hydrostatic relief valve (LPG)

• Damage, blockage or tampering

Protrusions from mobile equipment

• Components, piping and containers that extend beyond the overall contour of the forklift

Equipment marking

• Presence and legibility of all required plates and markings

Liquid filter(s)

• Clean and intact

The forklift may fail the inspection if any parts are not present during the inspection if retrofitting is not possible. AS 4983-2010 includes specific guidelines on what form of damage and/or corrosion warrants the container being taken to a certified gas cylinder test station.

This article is a guide only and in no way constitutes the Australian Standard Government guide lines. AS 4983-2010 should be referenced for further clarification and guidance.