Why should you turn off the engine when refuelling a forklift?

Turning off the engine when refuelling a forklift is crucial primarily to prevent the risk of fire. Fuel is highly flammable, and any ignition source, such as a running engine, can ignite fuel vapours which may be present during the refuelling process. By shutting down the engine, you eliminate this potential ignition source, significantly lowering the chance of an accidental fire occurring.

While other considerations, such as noise pollution, fuel measurement accuracy, and engine health, might seem relevant, the primary concern in a refuelling scenario is the safety of both the operator and the environment. Ensuring that the engine is off while handling fuel is a critical safety procedure in many workplaces where heavy machinery is used.