TT-977 Battery Room Safety - Safety Shower and Eye Wash Stations

Affected: All Forklift Battery Rooms and Charging Areas

According to several safety agencies, drench showers and eye wash stations are a requirement in any battery room. BHS offers several models of emergency eye washes and showers, including a portable unit for areas without plumbing access as well as a shower/eye wash combination unit to ensure compliance.

Description:
The Occupational Health and Safety Administration states:
“Where the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body shall be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use.” (OSHA standard 1910.151(c) / 29 CFR 1910.151)

“Facilities for quick drenching of the eyes and body shall be provided within 25 feet (7.62 m) of battery handling areas.” (OSHA standard 1926.441(a)(7))

The National Fire Protection Association states:
“Where handling acid concentrates that contain greater than 50% acid (above 1400 specific gravity) an eye wash fountain shall be provided.” (NFPA 505 9.3.3)

“Eye and body wash apparatus shall be maintained in operable condition.” (NFPA 70E Article 240.2)

Recommendation:

BHS offers a wide range of safety equipment to protect staff from battery acid and other dangerous substances. It’s important to keep protective equipment in the area where a spill or accident is most likely to occur. That’s why BHS offers its eye wash kits in various formats.

The Wall Mounted Eye Wash is essential for a battery room, as it gives immediate relief to an affected employee. If wallspace is hard to come by, the Pedestal Mounted Eye Wash ensures that employees still have quick access to this important safety equipment.

For areas that don’t have plumbing, the Portable Eye Wash is the best option. This entirely self-contained 16-gallon tank system ensures that your staff has access to the appropriate emergency equipment anywhere in the facility.

Repair:

Additional information on available eye washes as well as other safety equipment which may be required for your application can be found here. Contact BHS or your local BHS Dealer for more information.