By S. S. Suarez
Forklifts and other powered mechanical handling trucks are very much in demand today. According to a friend in the equipment rental business, there is a boom for this kind of business with the Philippine economy experiencing growth in construction, manufacturing, transport and logistics business.
With such success, the increased demand for mobile equipment also magnifies the occupational safety risks involving the use of forklifts.
Such equipment could be powered by diesel, LPG and even batteries. As we know, there are many hazards associated with forklift operation. But for today’s blog, I would like to share some tips on dealing with hazards involving battery-operated forklifts.
Taking some pointers from George Swartz, author of “Forklift Safety: A Practical Guide to Preventing Powered Industrial Truck Incidents and Injuries”, untoward incidents in the battery charging area can be prevented by the following:
1) Keep tools and other metallic objects award from the top of uncovered batteries
2) A “No Smoking” rule must prevail. Batteries contain hydrogen gas, which is explosive. Only allow trained employees to handle and charge lift truck batteries. Open flames, sparks, or any other ignition source must be avoided. Warn employees against wearing jewelry which could come in contact with battery terminals. Keep tools and other metal objects away from the top of uncovered batteries.
3) When batteries need maintenance, many organizations use an outside service for this purpose. Batteries may have to be cleared and serviced and the cells may have to be replaced from time to time.
4) Should a fire occur in a battery, the best extinguisher is carbon dioxide or a multipurpose unit (ABC).
5) Battery chargers should be numbered or labeled to correspond with the appropriate disconnect switches. In event of an emergency, the switch can be moved to the “off” position to stop the electrical current.
6) Eye wash units are a must by battery chargers. /the best units allow for continuous flushing of the eyes for at least 15 minutes.
7) Always turn the charger off before attaching or removing the plug. Be sure the lift truck brakes are set.
8) The battery charging machines should be maintained per manufacturer’s guidelines. Batteries should be maintained per manufacturer’s guidelines.
9) The disconnect charger plugs should be on elastic cord.
10) When handling electrolyte, provide a carboy tilter or siphon. Do not attempt to add sulfuric acid to a battery.
11) A placard or poster from the battery company should be posted by battery charging areas. The battery care and charging rules should be on the poster.
12) Areas where charging and maintenance is to take place should be specifically designed for the purpose. The floor should be non-skid, because of the potential of water and battery acid/electrolyte being on the floor.
13) Where hoists or cranes are used to lift the batteries, the lifting device should be designed for the job. Hard hats may be necessary when working around the crane.
14) If battery retainer plates are used to secure a battery, they must always be replaced properly after charging. Also, it’s possible that the retainer plates may have acid or corrosion on them. Wear the necessary PPE.
15) Batteries are to be disconnected before making any repairs on the electrical system.
16) Provide necessary ventilation and exhaust system to deplete the hydrogen gas generated by the batteries.
