The Forklift Is Parked, but the Battery Hazard Is Active

Controls to confirm

• Charge only in the designated area. Correctly position the truck, apply the brake, inspect the charger and leads, protect charging equipment from vehicle impact and follow the manufacturer and site procedure for connecting, operating and disconnecting the charger.
• Keep the area adequately ventilated and the battery cover or compartment open where the procedure requires it so heat and hydrogen can disperse. Prohibit smoking, flames, sparks and electrical arcs, and keep jewellery, tools and other metallic objects away from uncovered battery terminals.
• Allow only trained workers to charge or change batteries. Provide the specified eye, face, hand and body protection, and confirm that suitable flushing, spill-neutralisation and fire-protection equipment is immediately available; use approved handling equipment and secure any battery that is removed and reinstalled.

Today’s action

Before the next industrial-truck battery charge, inspect the designated station with the operator. Confirm the brake, charger condition, ventilation, ignition control, protective equipment and emergency flushing and fire-protection arrangements before power is connected.

Source guidance

OSHA — Powered industrial trucks: changing and charging storage batteries (29 CFR 1910.178(g)) and electric-forklift battery guidance; checked 12 October 2026