Are you Keeping Carbon Monoxide Emissions in Check?

Internal combustion engines in forklifts powered by gasoline, propane or diesel can release Carbon Monoxide (CO) when incomplete combustion of fuels takes place. CO can easily accumulate in the air if there are many forklifts operating at the same time and/or the ventilation in the warehouse is not enough to dilute the air. Forklifts operating outside pose less of a threat, however, those working in a closed space can be in danger. CO is an odorless, colorless and tasteless gas that is poisonous if inhaled. When inhaled it affects the neurological system and results in persisting headaches, dizziness, nausea and sometimes, irreversible cardiac and brain damage.

Old engines and inadequate exhaust systems are the leading cause for elevated CO levels in a warehouse. The following are some simple steps that can be taken to detect high levels of CO in the environment and to avoid buildup of CO in the warehouse:

1. Carbon monoxide detector is one of the easiest and economical ways to ensure that operators know when CO levels are rising. Some models of forklifts come attached with an onboard dash monitor to help warn operators of rising CO levels.
2. Catalytic Converters attached to forklifts that are known to release toxic gases (due to the fuel that powers them) can help in converting the toxic gases into less harmful pollutants.
3. Engine Maintenance needs to be updated at all times, as improperly tuned fuel driven engines are inefficient and dangerous. Properly tuned engines can reduce CO emissions and use fuel more efficiently; this leads to reduction in fuel costs and employee turnover.
4. Ventilation and exhaust management is essential in a closed environment. Operators and management should be trained to know what the optimum ventilation is for specific seasons and for the number of forklifts operating at the same time.

Electric Forklifts

If you are someone who thinks that CO emissions are inevitable due to the high number of forklifts being used or because you work in a controlled air environment, then it is advisable to invest in battery run or electric forklifts. Electric forklifts run on charged batteries that last 6 to 8 hours on average. Their performance and long term cost are better than fuel powered forklifts in many cases and they are safer to use for operators.

Ace Equipment specializes in providing a wide variety of forklifts and forklift related parts and services in Texas. If you are looking for parts to manage CO emissions, or looking for someone to make your forklift’s engine more efficient or looking to buy safer electric forklifts, Ace Equipment is the place to go. Servicing people throughout Irving, Dallas, Arlington, and Fort Worth for years, Ace Equipment has made a reputation as the go-to shop for forklifts. Over the years, we have grown exponentially to not only meet the needs of our eclectic customer base, but the industry, too. We employ a handful of experienced, knowledgeable, and attentive salesmen and rental experts, all of whom are poised to answer any question you may have on the spot. Contact us today with your CO emission worries and we will make sure we provide you with a viable solution.