A Quick Guide To Forklift Battery Safety

Modern electric forklift trucks rely on modern batteries to keep them working effectively all day, every day. However, the storage, handling and charging of these batteries needs to be managed properly to ensure you get maximum life out of them and that those using them can do so safely.

This month at East Midlands Forklifts, we’re taking a close look at forklift battery safety and examining what you need to do – and what you need not to do – to use them safely.

What type of batteries are used in forklift trucks?

Forklift trucks run on one of two types of battery:

• lead acid batteries – similar to those used in cars
• lithium-ion batteries – similar to (but much bigger than!) those you’ll find in electronics like mobile phones and laptops

Because lithium-ion batteries mostly remain in the truck and don’t need to be removed to be charged, most of the information in this guide will cover best practice when using lead acid batteries.

The Dos and don’ts of forklift batteries 

There are a number of very important forklift battery charging safety procedures you should always bear in mind – here are our key dos and don’ts:

Dos

• Charge your battery when it drops to about 20% remaining charge – you’ll get a longer life out of your battery, while deep discharging (i.e. letting the charge drop further) can also result in electrical components overheating
• Charge it completely each time to get maximum lifespan – you’ll get a limited number of charges, and a half-charge counts the same as a full one
• Avoid extreme temperatures – both high and low
• Check the water level regularly – if you need to top it up, do so after the battery has been fully charged
• Clean the top of the battery once a month using warm water or battery cleaner – this will reduce the chances of chemical build-up and corrosion

Don’ts

• Don’t try to lift a battery on your own – they’re very heavy!
• Don’t change batteries mid-shift or charge during a break – not only will that reduce the lifespan, it also might mean things get done in a hurry without the right levels of care and attention
• Don’t overfill when topping up the water – it might cause sulphuric acid to spill out
• Don’t use a battery that’s emitting smoke – should you see smoke, turn off the power immediately and don’t use that battery again

How to prevent forklift battery explosions 

• Forklift battery charging should be done in a well-ventilated area – batteries emit hydrogen and oxygen when charging. If enough accumulates, even a small spark can produce an explosion
• Unplug or turn off the charger before connecting or disconnecting to the battery
• Keep the battery cover open while charging
• Regularly inspect the vent caps on the battery to make sure they’re in a satisfactory condition
• Regularly check electrical cords for signs of fraying and other damage
• Install prominent signage prohibiting the use of open flames in the charging area

Safety precautions to remember when dealing with forklift batteries

• Wear appropriate safety gear – including safety shoes, goggles and gloves
• When handling batteries, have hand and eye washing stations located close by in case of spillage
• Always charge and store in well-ventilated areas

As a leading provider of new and used forklift trucks, as well as spare parts, attachments and maintenance services, East Midlands Forklifts can answer any questions you may have regarding the safe use of all kinds of forklift batteries. We operate in and around Derby, Nottingham and Leicester.

Contact us now to find out more.