Batteries and Lighting
Batteries
Changing and Recharging Batteries
- Changing and/or charging must be located in areas designated for that purpose.
- Area must have facilities to flush and neutralize spilled electrolyte.
- Eyewashes and showers must be available.
- Must have adequate fire protection.
- “No smoking” in charging area.
- Must protect chargers from vehicle damage.
- Must adequately ventilate for vapors from gassing batteries:
- Hydrogen gas emitted
- Very flammable
- Overhead hoist or equivalent must be used to handle batteries.
- Wear appropriate PPE.
- A carboy tilter or siphon must be provided for handling electrolyte.
- Pour acid into water, not vice versa.
- Open battery cover or compartment to dissipate heat.
- Prevent any open flames, sparks or electric arcs in battery charging areas.
Lighting -Powered industrial trucks (PIT)
All new and used forklifts must meet required design and construction guidelines. These can be found in the “American National Standard for Powered Industrial Trucks, Part II, ANSI B56.1-1969”.
Powered industrial trucks (PIT) warning lights aren’t just a good idea; they’re an OSHA requirement. OSHA regulation 1910.178 (h) (2) states that Powered industrial trucks (PIT) headlights are required in dimly lit indoor areas. They are also mandated in outdoor areas at night, and everywhere else auxiliary lighting is required.
