Lift truck Battery Dangers
Electric forklifts 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 devices are able to quietly run on large batteries and are capable of lifting heavy loads. Usually, warehouse personnel are responsible for recharging the batteries or swapping them out during a shift. Even though these batteries have been designed and developed with safety as the main concern, there are still some problems a handler has to be aware of and things to be prevented when near the batteries.
Weight
Several forklift batteries could weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, depending upon the model. These extreme weights factors will require mechanical assistance to safely charge and change the battery. Approximately 50% of all forklift battery-related injuries are caused by improper moving and lifting these heavy pieces of machinery. At times jacks, other forklifts or even specialized carts are used so as to transport and move heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of equipment would really depend upon how the handler securely affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, serious injuries could occur due to falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols that describe when and how the lift truck battery would be charged. Nearly all businesses have extensive regulations and rules describing the safest method to remove the forklift battery in an efficient and safe way.
Corrosives
It is important to know that forklift batteries are filled with corrosive liquids that need proper safety precautions followed in order to handle them. Two of the most common forklift battery types include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both really corrosive materials which can cause chemical burns to the hands, skin, face and eyes.