Abstract

Inadequate maintenance of propane-powered vehicles (e.g. forklifts) may result in carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. In this project, a mechanics instructor and an educational consultant will develop a training program specifically for mechanics working on propane-powered vehicles. The program will subsequently be disseminated throughout the province with the collaboration of Quebec school boards. The training will cover preventive maintenance and the use of combustion-gas analyses for diagnostic purposes, quality control and the verification of environmental compliance. Mechanics themselves play an important role in the prevention of CO poisonings; training programs such as this are an effective way of reducing worker exposure and also help employers select preventive maintenance services.