TT-976: Battery Room Safety - Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Affected: All Forklift Battery Rooms and Charging Areas

According to several safety agencies, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required in any battery room. BHS offers complete PPE kits as well as individual items for spares / replacements to ensure compliance.

Description:
The Occupational Health and Safety Administration states:
“Face shields, aprons, and rubber gloves shall be provided for workers handling acids or batteries.” (OSHA standard 1926.441(a)(5))

“The employer shall ensure that each affected employee uses appropriate eye or face protection when exposed to eye or face hazards from flying particles, molten metal, liquid chemicals, acids or caustic liquids, chemical gases or vapors, or potentially injurious light radiation.”
(OSHA standard 1910.133(a)(1))

“Protective equipment, including personal protective equipment for eyes, face, head and extremities, protective clothing, respiratory devices, and protective shields and barriers, shall be provided, used, and maintained in a sanitary and reliable condition wherever it is necessary by reason of hazards of processes or environment, chemical hazards, radiological hazards, or mechanical irritants encountered in a manner capable of causing injury or impairment in the function of any part of the body through absorption, inhalation or physical contact”
(OSHA standard 1910.132)

The National Fire Protection Association states:
“Battery maintenance personnel shall wear protective clothing such as eye protection, long sleeves, and gloves.” (NFPA 505 9.3.7.3)

Recommendation:
The BHS Personal Protective Kit (PK-1200) provides protection to staff when watering or changing batteries and while cleaning and neutralizing battery acid spills. Protect your staff and comply with OSHA regulations by using this all-in-one safety kit.

The Personal Protective Kit comes with both a Chemical Splash Face Shield and Chemical Splash Goggles. This gives staff added adaptability for whatever task they are completing. An Acid Protection Apron, HAZ-MAT Boots, and a pair of 12-inch Neoprene Gloves round out the kit, which can all be neatly stored in the included Protective Kit Bag.

Repair:
Additional information on the Personal Protective Kit as well as other safety equipment which may be required for your application can be found at here. Contact BHS or your local BHS Dealer for more information.