MIL-HDBK-1032/2
Battery Charging and Handling Operations. Provide an equipped and
3.8.1
ventilated area for the charging of materials handling vehicle batteries.
Figures 22 and 23 illustrate typical battery charging layouts. Refer to
General Maintenance Facilities, NAVFAC DM-28.04, for additional information
regarding enclosed battery charging areas.
Safety Showers/Spill Control. Provide facilities for emergency
3.8.1.1
drenching of the eyes and body, flushing and neutralizing spilled
electrolyte, fire protection, and protecting charging apparatus from damage
by vehicles (Figure 241, in accordance with American National Standard for
Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment, ANSI Z358.1-1981. Battery charging
areas shall be equipped with neutralizing chemicals. Floors shall be treated
with an acid resistant coating. Install permanent eye wash and shower
facilities wherever permanent charging or servicing areas are constructed.
Fire Extinguishing Equipment. Fire fighting equipment, consisting
3.8.1.2
of fire extinguishers of either the carbon dioxide or dry powder type
suitable for use on chemical and electrical fires, shall be included in the
battery charging area.
Battery Handling Equipment. Provide specialized battery handling
3.8.1.3
equipment in battery charging and work areas. Equipment used must be
selected based on the characteristics of the vehicle and battery being
serviced, the activity of the charging station, and the maintenance work
performed on the battery. Devices include handling beams, jib hoists,
special charging stations, and battery transporters.
3.8.1.4
Ventilation. Provide natural and mechanical exhaust ventilation to
ensure diffusion of the gases from the battery and to prevent the
accumulation of an explosive mixture. Provide ventilation to limit hydrogen
gas buildup to no more than 1 percent by volume in room air. If battery
charging room air is air conditioned as part of a general building air
conditioning system, exhaust air directly to the outdoors and do not return
it to the air distribution system. Required air changes shall be based on
the expected activity in the charging room, but shall be no less than six air
changes per hour. Activity must consider the number of cells being charged
at a given time and the charging current being used. Provide an air velocity
rate across battery charging shelves of at least 125 feet per minute
(0.64 m/s) in accordance with NAVFAC DM-28.04 and the American Conference of
Governmental Industrial Hygienists Industrial Ventilation Manual. Interlock
the ventilation system with the chargers to prevent charger operation unless
the ventilation system is operating. Refer to NAVSUP PUB-529, Section
23.4.4, for charging rate and hydrogen production criteria.
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