Lift truck Battery Dangers
Electric forklifts are the best choice by numerous supply outlets or warehouses that have to transport equipment and heavy products out of and into storage. These battery-powered machines can run quietly on large batteries and can lift heavy cargo. Normally, warehouse employees are responsible for recharging the batteries or swapping them out during a shift. Though these batteries have been developed and designed with safety as the main concern, there are still several problems a handler should know and things to be avoided when in the vicinity of the batteries.
Weight
Depending upon the model, some forklift batteries could weigh up to 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 percent of all forklift battery-related injuries are caused by improper moving and lifting these heavy pieces of equipment. Sometimes jacks, other forklifts or even specialized carts are utilized in order to move and transport heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of equipment would really depend upon how securely the handler affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, severe injuries can happen because of falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols that describe how and when the lift truck battery will be charged. Most businesses have extensive rules and regulations describing the safest method to remove the forklift battery in an efficient and safe manner.
Corrosives
In order to handle them, it is important to know the battery is filled with corrosive liquids which require you to follow safety precautions. Two of the most common types of lift truck batteries include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both extremely corrosive materials that could lead to chemical burns to the hands, skin, face and eyes.