Lift truck Battery Dangers
Electric forklifts are the best choice by a lot of supply outlets or warehouses that have to transport equipment and heavy things into and out off storage. These battery-powered machinery can quietly run on big batteries and can lift heavy loads. Typically, warehouse personnel are responsible for swapping out the batteries or recharging them during a shift. Though these batteries have been designed and developed with safety at the forefront, there are still some issues a user should know and things to be avoided when in the vicinity of the batteries.
Weight
Depending upon the type, some forklift batteries can weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Obviously, these extreme weight factors require mechanical assistance in order to safely charge and change the battery. Roughly 50 percent of all injuries related to forklift batteries are caused by improper lifting and moving these heavy pieces of equipment. Sometimes jacks, other forklifts or even specialized carts are utilized in order to transport and move heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of machinery depends upon how safely the handler affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, severe injuries could occur due to falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols that describe when and how the lift truck battery will be charged. Most companies have extensive regulations and rules describing the safest way to remove the forklift battery in a safe and efficient manner.
Corrosives
It is essential to know that lift truck batteries are filled with corrosive liquids that require proper safety precautions followed in order to handle them. Two of the most common lift truck battery types include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both really corrosive materials that could result in chemical burns to the skin, hands, eyes and face.