Data Center UPS & Battery Room Safety Checklist

Inspect battery terminals for corrosion. Are terminals clean and free of buildup? (Weekly Visual)

Examine battery cases for cracks, swelling, or other signs of physical damage. Are all batteries free from defects?

Check for any signs of electrolyte leakage (acid) around batteries and connections. Is there any evidence of spills or residue?

Verify that the battery room ventilation system is operational and unobstructed. Is airflow adequate to prevent hydrogen buildup?

Test hydrogen gas sensors to ensure they are functioning correctly and calibrated. Do sensors trigger alarms at appropriate levels? (Weekly Test)

Review UPS system event logs for any alarms related to battery health or system faults. Are alarms promptly addressed and documented?

Verify that the battery monitoring system is active and reporting accurate data (voltage, temperature, impedance). Is data trending within acceptable limits?

Inspect battery inter-cell and terminal connections for tightness and proper torque. Are connections secure and within specified torque values?

Verify that the battery room temperature is within the recommended operating range. Is temperature control system functioning correctly?

Review battery impedance and conductance readings to assess battery aging. Are any batteries nearing end-of-life?

Verify that all breaker panels are clearly labeled with circuit descriptions. Are labels accurate and up-to-date?

Inspect breaker panels for signs of overheating, corrosion, or physical damage. Are breakers in good working order?

Confirm that a current arc flash hazard analysis has been performed and is readily available. Is the analysis less than 3 years old?

Verify that appropriate arc flash PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is available and in good condition. Is PPE rated for the potential hazard level?

Ensure that insulated tools are used when working on or near energized equipment. Are tools inspected regularly for damage?

Verify grounding continuity of all electrical equipment. Is grounding system properly installed and maintained?

Ensure adequate working clearances are maintained around electrical equipment. Are clearances free from obstructions?

Confirm that lockout/tagout procedures are followed when performing maintenance on electrical equipment. Are procedures documented and readily available?

Inspect cable insulation for damage, cracking, or wear. Are cables properly supported and protected?

Verify the functionality of the emergency shutdown system for the UPS and battery room. Is the system tested regularly?

Verify that an eyewash station is readily accessible and functioning correctly. Is the station inspected and maintained regularly?

Ensure that a spill kit is available and contains appropriate materials for electrolyte spills. Is the kit properly stocked and accessible?

Verify that a fire extinguisher (Class C) is readily accessible and inspected regularly. Is the extinguisher properly charged and tagged?

Ensure that a first-aid kit is available and adequately stocked. Is the kit inspected regularly and replenished as needed?

Verify that appropriate warning signs are posted, including arc flash hazard warnings, battery acid warnings, and no smoking signs. Are signs visible and legible?

Ensure that access to the battery room is restricted to authorized personnel only. Is access control system functioning correctly?

Verify adequate lighting levels within the battery room. Are lights functioning properly and providing sufficient illumination?

Ensure the battery room is clean, organized, and free from obstructions. Is there any combustible material present?

Verify that Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for battery electrolyte are readily available. Are SDS up-to-date?

Review maintenance records for the UPS and battery system. Is maintenance performed according to schedule?

Verify that personnel working on the UPS and battery system are adequately trained in electrical safety, arc flash awareness, and battery handling procedures. Are training records current?

Ensure that an emergency response plan is in place for battery-related incidents (e.g., electrolyte spills, thermal runaway). Is the plan readily available and understood by personnel?

Verify that up-to-date single-line diagrams of the UPS system are available. Are diagrams accurate and reflect current configuration?

Confirm that a layout diagram of the battery room is available, showing battery locations, ventilation system, and safety equipment. Is the diagram accurate?

Verify that a system is in place for reporting incidents and near misses related to the UPS and battery system. Are incidents investigated and corrective actions implemented?

Review previous inspection reports for the UPS and battery room. Are identified issues being addressed in a timely manner?