![]() Guidelines for ventilation in battery charging areas, based on the National Fire Protection Agency Standards (NFPA 855), are provided below: ![]() Many standards and codes recommend a ventilation system that prevents the accumulation of hydrogen to above 25% of its lower explosive limit (LEL), or above 1% by volume. ![]() In general, the areas where batteries are charged need to be adequately ventilated to make sure there is no risk of an explosion or fire, and that workers are not exposed to hazardous concentrations of any contaminants (e.g., above exposure limits). The occupational health and safety legislation does not always indicate specific ventilation requirements. What are the ventilation requirements for charging areas? Back to top Batteries should also not be charged or handled near sources of heat, flames or sparks, such as welding activities, burning cigarettes, or other source of ignition.Ĭharging stations for battery-powered industrial trucks, per the National Fire Code of Canada, must be located at least 1.5m from combustible materials, in well-ventilated areas, and in areas where there are no hazardous concentrations of flammable gases or vapours, combustible dusts or combustible fibres. ![]() This is essential to prevent an explosion. The ventilation system needs to be able to exchange an adequate amount of fresh air for the number of batteries being charged. When leac-acid batteries are being recharged, they generate hydrogen gas that is explosive in certain concentrations in air (explosive limits are 4.1 to 72 percent hydrogen in air). Why is there a risk of an explosion? Back to top Improper handling of batteries can also lead to shocks and electrocution, and battery charging can also result in the release of other harmful contaminants.įor general safety precautions when working with batteries, please see the OSH Answers Garages - Batteries which covers automotive vehicle sized batteries and the OSH Answers on Forklift Trucks - Lead-Acid Batteries for forklift batteries.įor specific guidelines regarding large industrial batteries, check with the manufacturer for recommended safe work procedures. Hydrogen gas can lead to fires and explosions, and worker exposure to sulfuric acid can lead to chemical burns and other adverse health effects. The two primary risks are from hydrogen gas formed when the battery is being charged and the sulfuric acid in the battery fluid, also known as the electrolyte. The charging of lead-acid batteries (e.g., forklift or industrial truck batteries) can be hazardous. What are the risks of charging an industrial lead-acid battery? Back to top NOTE: This OSH Answers document provides general guidance for industrial lead-acid batteries used to operate forklifts and is not meant to replace the requirements from the manufacturer or legislation. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and safety data sheets (SDS). In all cases, workers should be trained on safe work procedures, spill response, first-aid, and other related duties. Requirements from occupational health and safety legislation, building codes, electrical codes, and fire codes must also be followed.Īlways make sure the charging stations and devices have a Canadian certification mark (such as from the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or Intertek (cETL)), indicating it meets Canadian electrical safety standards (jurisdictions may specify which certification marks are acceptable). Workplaces should always make sure that procedures and practices are developed based on the battery’s manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations. The hazards and risks associated with a battery will depend on the type of battery, how it is used, how it needs to be charged and maintained, the area where it is being charged and used, among other factors. It is important to identify and assess the hazards and risks, and to have the appropriate control measures in place to protect workers. The use, handling and charging of batteries in the workplace can be hazardous. Why is it important to follow safety procedures when charging batteries? Back to top You are here: Battery Charging - Industrial Lead-Acid Batteries
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