Lift truck Battery Dangers
Electric lift trucks are the best choice by many warehouses or supply outlets which need to transport equipment and heavy things out of and into storage. These battery-powered machines could run quietly on big batteries and are capable of lifting heavy cargo. Typically, warehouse employees are responsible for swapping out the batteries or recharging them during a shift. Although these batteries have been designed and developed with safety at the forefront, there are still some issues a user has to know and stuff to be avoided when near the batteries.
Weight
Several forklift batteries could weigh up to 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, depending upon the model. These extreme weights factors will require mechanical assistance to safely charge and change the battery. About 50% of all injuries related to lift truck batteries result from incorrect moving and lifting these heavy pieces of machinery. Sometimes 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 depends on how the handler safely affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, serious injuries can happen because of falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols that describe when and how the forklift battery will be charged. The majority of companies have extensive rules and regulations describing the safest way to remove the lift truck battery in an efficient and safe way.
Corrosives
It is vital to realize that forklift batteries are filled with corrosive liquids which 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 very corrosive materials that could lead to chemical burns to the skin, hands, eyes and face.