Battery charging area inspection checklist

Before you use it

• OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178(g) covers changing and charging storage batteries on powered industrial trucks. Charging installations must be located in areas designated for that purpose ((g)(1)), and facilities must be provided for flushing and neutralizing spilled electrolyte, for fire protection, for protecting charging apparatus from damage by trucks, and for adequate ventilation for dispersal of fumes from gassing batteries ((g)(2)). Where eyes or body may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials, 1910.151(c) separately requires suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing within the work area for immediate emergency use.
• A conveyor, overhead hoist or equivalent material handling equipment must be provided for handling batteries ((g)(4)), and a carboy tilter or siphon for handling electrolyte ((g)(6)). When charging batteries, acid is poured into water; water is not poured into acid ((g)(7)). Trucks must be properly positioned with the brake applied before batteries are changed or charged ((g)(8)), vent caps must be functioning and the battery or compartment cover open to dissipate heat ((g)(9)), and reinstalled batteries must be properly positioned and secured in the truck ((g)(5)).
• Smoking is prohibited in the charging area ((g)(10)), precautions must be taken to prevent open flames, sparks or electric arcs ((g)(11)), and tools and other metallic objects are kept away from the top of uncovered batteries ((g)(12)).
• The standard sets no inspection interval for the area; the conditions must be maintained. Weekly suits most sites. Add the charger manufacturer’s own checks, and if your eyewash station is here, its activation from the eyewash checklist. Lithium-ion chargers involve no electrolyte handling, so drop those items for them.