Health and safety in the workplace is an increasingly hot topic and is particularly important when undertaking battery charging and maintenance. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations place considerable emphasis on assessing potential risks and taking the appropriate measures to ensure personnel are working in a safe environment - especially when operating in areas with harmful substances such as acid. GNB can offer factories and warehouses that use traction batteries a dedicated "Health and Safety Station" which can be wall-mounted in the charger room. It contains equipment to help protect workers as well as emergency items for use in the event of an accident.
This purpose-designed station contains essential clothing and equipment for use during maintenance and topping off operations, such as rubber gloves, face visor, breathing masks, eyewash and soda ash to neutralise acid spills. One safety station is recommended for up to 20 batteries in a charging area.
GNB can advise managers on their obligations towards employee safety in the charger room, as well as offering free posters that act as a permanent reminder on correct working practices. According to Andy Sheppard, GNB, National Service Manager, "The free battery care posters, combined with the Health & and Safety Station are a very cost-effective way for employers to meet their legal obligations under COSHH. If the worst happens, first-aid action can be taken immediately which could mean quite a difference in the outcome."
To ensure the Health and Safety Station is fully stocked, GNB also offers individual components that can be re-ordered when required.