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3:2 Elements of Concern continued
5. Weight: The average lift truck battery weighs more than 2,000 lbs.
(900kg). It can cause serious injury if it isn't handled carefully
during installation, removal, and transport. Always use proper lifting
equipment and techniques.
3.3 Proper PPE, Tools, and Equipment
1. Wearing Protective Clothing: When working on or near Deka
Ready Power batteries, always wear proper protective clothes
including safety glasses, gloves, and appropriate safety toed shoes. Do
not wear any metal jewelry because it can short circuit a battery and
cause injury. Consult with the National Electrical Code (NEC), National
Fire Protection Association (NFPA) NFPA 70E, and local codes when
working with exposed and/or energized electrical conductors.
2. Lifting Batteries: Always use the proper lifting equipment to reduce
the risk of tray damage, shorting and possible injury. An insulated
battery lifting beam with an overhead hoist is the safest way to lift a
battery. An insulated lifting beam, with hooks that fit properly into the
lifting ears in the tray, can be used with almost any type of overhead
hoist. Be sure the lifting hooks align perfectly with the battery lifting
ears. Misaligned hooks can cause battery lifting ear damage and could
disengage while the battery is being lifted.
3. Using the Battery as a Counterweight: In order for most lift
trucks to operate safely, the battery is part of the counterweight of the
forklift truck. The battery must be within the recommended battery
weight range specified on the forklift truck's nameplate. The battery's
service weight is stamped on the tray near one of the lifting holes. A
battery that is too heavy or too light can change the truck's center of
gravity and cause it to be unstable. It is the user's responsibility to be
sure the battery is within weight specifications of the forklift truck.
4. Charging Areas – Proper Equipment: The Deka Ready Power
should be charged using only compatible charging equipment in
designated charging areas.
5. Fire Fighting Equipment: Hand-operated fire extinguishers should
be available in all charging areas even if the areas are equipped with
automatic sprinkler systems. For information on extinguisher class,
size, and mounting locations, consult local fire authorities and your
insurance carrier.
6. Disconnecting Charger: Always press the "Stop" button on the
charger prior to disconnecting a battery that is being charged.
3:4 Electrolyte Exposure
If the Deka Ready Power battery pack case is crushed, damaged,
or compromised, inadvertent contact with the electrolyte may cause
damage to eyes, skin, nose, throat, lungs, and respiratory tract if
inhaled. Be sure to review the SDS (Safety Data Sheet) before handling.
1. Electrolyte Spills: Spills are unlikely as the battery is enclosed in a
steel case and the electrolyte is absorbed onto a substrate and cannot
flow under normal conditions. However, if the battery is crushed, or
compromised with a release of electrolyte, the electrolyte should be
contained and absorbed with suitable materials (e.g., sand and or
vermiculite) and the appropriate PPE shall be donned.
2. Contact w/skin: If any materials from inside the cell contact skin,
immediately wash exposed area with plenty of water for at least 15
minutes. Remove any contaminated clothing, jewelry etc. If Calgonate
is available, use as directed. Contact emergency services if needed.
Calgonate Gel is an effective topical 2.5% calcium gluconate gel that is
used in first aid response to hydrofluoric acid (HF) exposure or contact
to the body.
3. Eyes: If contact with eyes, rinse with water for several minutes.
Remove contact lenses, continue rinsing. Contact emergency services
if needed.
4. Inhaled: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for
breathing. Contact emergency services if needed.
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