Forklift battery washing is one of the most important procedures your personnel will have to perform, as it helps maintain an optimal level of warehouse efficiency by extending forklift battery life.

Yet so many warehouse owners and personnel don’t understand just what is needed for successful washing of a forklift battery.

Could your knowledge of this crucial part of forklift battery maintenance be lacking? Find out with this list of the three most important things personnel should have when routinely washing a forklift battery:

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

All warehouse personnel should be required to wear PPE when working with or near forklift batteries. This is because each forklift battery is 2,000 pounds’ worth of hazardous chemicals that can be extremely harmful if they come into contact with the skin or eyes. To prevent personnel from being injured by electrolyte spray or chemical spills, enforce the wearing of gear like aprons, gloves, face protection and goggles.

The right water mixture

You can’t just wash a forklift battery with soap and water. Ideally, forklift batteries should be washed with a mixture of one part baking soda, five parts water. The water must be distilled and mineral-free, as any impurities in the water could react with the battery’s chemicals and cause its lifespan to decrease.

Battery wash equipment

Because washing a forklift battery is dangerous work for everyone involved, it’s a good idea for your warehouse to invest in a battery wash cabinet or other types of equipment that will do the washing for your personnel. Not only does this keep personnel safe from harm, but it also gets the washing done faster — a win-win situation.

Have any other useful tips for safe, efficient and successful forklift battery washing? Share with us and your fellow readers in the comments below!