BLT is recommending that fire-resistant hydraulic fluids be used in forklifts in hazardous environments.

BLT, Africa's exclusive distributor of Taylor forklifts, is recommending that fire-resistant hydraulic fluids be used instead of standard petroleum oil for forklifts in hazardous environments.

BLT product manager Clinton van den Berg says inappropriate use of forklifts in hazardous environments can result in fires, causing injury to workers and extensive damage to property.

"Because petroleum oil can ignite and burn if it comes into contact with hot surfaces, we advise that fire-resistant hydraulic fluids like water glycol be used as an alternative," van den Berg explains.

"Hydraulic media is recommended in powered industrial trucks operating in industrial sites involving aluminium, steel smelting or forging operations. Hydraulic fluids are also advised for trucks working near wood and brick kilns where temperatures are high," he continues.

BLT also warns that loads with temperatures exceeding 232.2 °C should not be carried unless the forklift is equipped with fire-resistant hydraulic media. The forklift distributor suggests hot loads be transported on specially designed trailers and then only be unloaded by forklifts.

By installing specialist equipment on existing forklifts, BLT converts petroleum-based forklift systems to water glycol systems. The conversion is then supported by a regular maintenance program. It is critical to closely monitor water levels in the forklift because of evaporation.