5 ) LET BATTERIES COOL
6 ) KEEP AN EYE ON THE BDI
7 ) CHECK CABLES , PLUGS AND CHARGERS
8 ) USE BATTERIES EVENLY
9 ) KEEP LIDS CLEAN
10 ) THINK SAFETY !
5 ) LET BATTERIES COOL
A typical lead acid battery needs to be left for a good two hours to cool after every charge . Build this time into your charging schedule and make it a mandated part of your health and safety best practice .
6 ) KEEP AN EYE ON THE BDI
Equipment operators should continually monitor the status shown on Battery Discharge Indicators . Batteries should ideally be recharged when their indicator shows around 25 % charge remaining . Doing so will keep them in optimum condition and allow the battery to deliver its maximum capacity for longer . Newer machines are also programmed to cut out the hydraulic function when 80 % discharge is reached , preventing lift , however drive functions remain unaffected .
7 ) CHECK CABLES , PLUGS AND CHARGERS
Battery leads can be prone to damage or corrosion , as can plugs and chargers . Check all equipment and connections and report any frayed wires or worn insulation . A weekly visual inspection will help identify any issues before they can affect the operation of the machinery .
8 ) USE BATTERIES EVENLY
When operating more than one battery , such as in multiple shift environments , make sure that they are all used and charged evenly . This will avoid the risk of any one battery being over-cycled , which could result in a decrease in performance and shortening of its useful life . Implementing Battery Monitoring System technology will keep operators informed of batteries ’ status and ensure even use .
9 ) KEEP LIDS CLEAN
The lids of battery cells should always be kept clean and free from debris . Doing so will prevent potential earth leakage and any subsequent reduction in capacity .
10 ) THINK SAFETY !
Whenever working with batteries always wear suitable protective clothing and use appropriate safety equipment . Ensure spill kits and an eye wash station is located within your charging area . Remember to also provide good ventilation to all batteries and chargers when charging and keep battery compartment lids open if charging the battery in situ . And don ’ t forget to safely store the charge cables when not in use , this will avoid unnecessary damage as well as removing any potential trip hazards .
IMPORTANT ! Only top the battery up , if required , when fully charged !
Download a free A1 poster here : LEAD ACID BATTERY CARE AND SAFETY GUIDELINES www . impact-handling . com
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