Why machines should not be used while charging

16 January 2026

Time is money, but rushing can lead to unpleasant and dangerous situations. Take, for example, the process of charging equipment batteries. Some operators start driving a machine while its battery is still charging, but this can have serious consequences. Read this blog from our expert power solutions brand, Energic Plus, to find out what these consequences are and how to stop people from using machines while their batteries are charging.

Don’t charge and drive

There are several reasons why operating a machine while its battery is charging is a bad idea:

Damage to the infrastructure: there is a high chance of damaging the cable when driving the machine while its battery is still connected to the charger. There’s also a risk of the socket being pulled out of the wall.
Lifespan: failing to charge the battery fully reduces its lifespan and that of the machine. Therefore, ensure that the battery has sufficient time to recharge.
Safety: operating a machine with a cable plugged in is extremely hazardous for the operator and the people nearby.

How to prevent charging and driving

The most effective way to stop people from using machines while their batteries are charging is to install an interlock system. This safety system consists of two wires connected to the charger and a relay connected to the machine's starting circuit. They are connected in such a way that the circuit is interrupted when the battery is charging, which effectively prevents operators from starting the machine while it’s charging.

Most built-in chargers come with an additional relay to implement an interlock system. Some also have interlock wiring installed by default. Although a universal interlock system does not yet exist, one can always be purchased separately or retrofitted.

Find out even more about Energic Plus

Read some of our other blogs to find out more about industrial batteries, chargers, and advanced battery maintenance solutions from Energic Plus:

How to charge traction batteries correctly
How to discharge lead-acid batteries
How to choose the right high-quality battery charger
Things you should know before using a battery charger
Why a high-frequency charger is the better choice
How to choose between a built-in and stand-alone charger
Save batteries with the Energic Plus battery regenerator
5 tips to maintain a starter battery
How to maintain lead-acid batteries

Looking for Energic Plus power solutions?

Click here for more info about Energic Plus.
Visit our online shop to order power solutions.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

About the authors

This blog post is brought to you by your Energic Plus team.

Request your customer account to shop parts online

STEP 1

Tell us about your company

Submit the application form to specify your business needs and request your customer account.

STEP 2

Your account creation

Our sales team will contact you within 3 business days to talk about your business needs and complete registration.

STEP 3

Access our online shop

After your account is set up, you will receive a personal login to our online shop. We will guide you in finding parts and placing your first order.

Request your account

Over 75.000 customers trust TVH as their spare parts supplier to ensure their client’s equipment fleet is running smoothly and efficiently. It starts with a customer account.

Become a customer