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Hydrogen Gas Detector for Lift Truck Battery Room

Hydrogen Gas In any warehouse, forklift battery maintenance presents a number of hazards in the battery room that warehouse personnel should be aware of. This is especially true when charging a lead-acid battery, as the charging process produces hydrogen, a gas that is undetectable by the human senses.

Accumulation of hydrogen gas in the air threatens battery room safety. The most common threats are explosion or fire, which are potential risks if the concentration of hydrogen gas in the air reaches 4.1% or greater. At its highest concentration, hydrogen gas is an asphyxiant, preventing one from breathing.

Because of these hazards, all warehouse battery rooms should have a hydrogen gas detector so personnel can be alerted if hydrogen gas begins to accumulate. It is also required by OSHA to have adequate ventilation to diffuse gases.

To ensure this vital piece of battery room safety equipment functions at its full potential, make sure to consider the following:

• A hydrogen gas detector should be able to detect hydrogen gas concentration in the air of at least 1% by volume (10,000 ppm).

• Hydrogen gas is the lightest of all gases therefore it rises. Hydrogen gas detectors should be installed in the highest, draft-free location in any room where hydrogen gas may accumulate.

• Consider the size of the room or enclosure where hydrogen gas may accumulate, as well as the type of ceiling and the airflow patterns to determine if multiple detectors are needed.

• Verify the equipment is made to function properly in the temperature and climate of your facility.

With the right precautions and equipment, potential dangers can be avoided during forklift battery charging, preventing injury and death in the workplace.