Forklift Battery Dangers
Electric lift trucks are the best choice by lots of warehouses or supply outlets that need to transport equipment and heavy things out of and into storage. These battery-powered machines are able to run quietly on big batteries and are capable of lifting heavy loads. Usually, warehouse personnel are responsible for swapping out the batteries or recharging them during a shift. Although these batteries have been developed and designed with safety as the main concern, there are still several problems a user should know and things to be prevented when in the vicinity of the batteries.
Weight
Depending on the type, some forklift batteries can weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Clearly, these extreme weight factors need mechanical assistance in order to safely charge and change the battery. Around 50% of all lift truck battery-related injuries are caused by improper moving and lifting these heavy pieces of machines. At times jacks, specialized carts, or even other forklifts are utilized so as to move and transport heavy batteries. The overall success of using these pieces of machinery will really depend upon how securely the handler affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, serious injuries can happen due to falling batteries.
There are strict protocols in the industry which describe when and how a forklift battery should be charged. Nearly all businesses have extensive policies and rules describing the safest way to remove the forklift battery in an efficient and safe way.
Corrosives
In order to handle them, it is important to know the battery is filled with corrosive liquids that require you to follow safety measures. Two of the most common lift truck battery types include sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide. These are both very corrosive materials which could cause chemical burns to the hands, skin, eyes and face.