CFA Battery & Electric Forklift Safety Flashcards

What is the correct procedure for extinguishing a battery acid spill on the floor?

Answer: Rinse with large amounts of water, then neutralize with baking soda

Battery acid spills should be diluted with large amounts of water and then neutralized with baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) before cleanup.

How should an electric forklift battery be stored when the forklift will be out of service for an extended period?

Answer: Removed and stored fully charged in a cool, dry, ventilated area

Batteries in long-term storage should be fully charged and kept in a cool, dry, ventilated location to minimize self-discharge and prevent sulfation.

What does a battery's 'amp-hour (Ah) rating' indicate?

Answer: The total electrical energy capacity the battery can deliver over time

The amp-hour rating indicates how much electrical charge a battery can store and deliver; for example, a 500 Ah battery can deliver 50 amps for 10 hours.

If an electric forklift's battery indicator shows it is nearly depleted during operation, what should the operator do?

Answer: Return the forklift to the charging area immediately and swap or charge the battery

Operating a forklift on a deeply depleted battery can cause permanent damage; the operator should immediately take it to the charging station.

What is a common sign that a forklift battery is being overcharged?

Answer: Electrolyte is bubbling excessively and battery case is hot

Excessive bubbling (gassing) and heat in the battery case during or after charging are signs of overcharging, which damages battery plates.

Which action is prohibited in a battery charging area to prevent ignition of hydrogen gas?

Answer: Smoking or using open flames

Smoking and open flames are strictly prohibited in battery charging areas because hydrogen gas emitted during charging can ignite and cause an explosion.