Material handling equipment that is powered by industrial forklift batteries produce less emissions than gas powered units and in most cases no emissions. Zero emissions however, does not mean zero hazards or dangers. Safe forklift battery care procedures must be followed to reduce the chance of injury, damage or death when charging and servicing industrial batteries such as those used in forklifts and other material handling equipment.
Electric forklifts and material handling equipment are generally powered by large-lead acid batteries, which require routine charging and service. As a safety precaution OSHA requires that a specific area or room be designated for the sole purpose of battery charging and servicing.
Safety begins with proper preparations. Equipping any battery charging area starts with knowing your facility’s needs now as well as anticipating future needs. OSHA regulations require a designated area for all forklift battery charging tasks that take place. This battery room must be equipped with certain required items that keep employees safe and batteries in good condition. The experts at SSMP can help your company build your battery room in OSHA compliance.
Spill containment systems are also required. Most spill containments systems utilize trays lined with absorbent material that catches any spilled electrolyte solutions under batteries as they are being charged or serviced helping to reduce the environmental impact of leaking batteries.
Spill clean-up packs will contain acid neutralizing agents and non-gassing acid absorbing pillows, which help in containing and neutralizing spilled electrolyte.
OSHA approved signage is required to inform and protect personnel visitors of potential safety hazards. SSMP representatives can help you obtain and position the proper signage.
Hydrogen gas a byproduct of the battery charging process can be explosive in high enough concentrations. It is required that all battery rooms have a functioning device to monitor the density of gas in the room.
Ventilation systems help in reducing and diffusing hydrogen gas from battery rooms helping to prevent dangerous accumulation while improving air quality. The experienced personnel at SSMP can help guide you through this process.
When charging and servicing industrial forklift batteries, safe battery care procedures must be followed. The following are OSHA requirements that must be part of your company safety protocol.
At Southern States Motive Power, we are industrial battery experts. We can help you follow the OSHA guidelines and be in compliance. For more information on OSHA requirements for battery care of industrial powered forklifts visit OSHA at https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/pit/forklift/electric.html
Or contact SSMP today and learn more how we can guide your company through the compliance process.