Dubai (PlantAndEquipment.com) - Linde Material Handling has delivered 20 explosion-proof H50/600D diesel forklifts to Iraq's Ministry of Oil, with the German-made vehicles undergoing specialized safety upgrades in Italy.

Each forklift has a lifting capability of 5 tons and is being upgraded by Italian engineering expert Miretti to fulfill ATEX 2GD standards for use in Zone 1 and Zone 21 hazardous areas.

The improvements are intended to enable forklifts to operate in regions where volatile gasses, vapors, or combustible dust may pose an explosion danger, such as oil and gas processing and handling facilities.

The conversion entails safeguarding vital components and altering electrical, mechanical, and safety systems to limit possible ignite sources during operation.

The deal also includes replacement parts to help with the long-term maintenance of the 20-machine fleet.

Production and conversion work is under underway, with the forklifts being prepped for deployment in Iraq's oil and gas industry.