Lift truck Battery Dangers
Electric forklifts are the main choice by many supply outlets or warehouses that need to move equipment and heavy items out of and into storage. These battery-powered devices are able to quietly run on big batteries and can lift heavy cargo. Normally, warehouse employees are responsible for swapping out the batteries or recharging them during a shift. Even though these batteries have been designed and developed with safety as the main concern, there are still some issues a user has to know and things to be avoided when near the batteries.
Weight
Depending upon the type, some forklift batteries could weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Clearly, these extreme weight factors require mechanical assistance in order to safely charge and change the battery. About 50% of all injuries related to forklift batteries are caused by improper lifting and moving these heavy pieces of machines. Sometimes jacks, specialized carts, or even other forklifts are used so as to move and transport heavy batteries. The overall success of using these pieces of machine will really depend upon how safely the handler affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, serious injuries could occur because of falling batteries.
There are strict protocols within the industry which describe how and when a forklift battery should be charged. The majority of companies have extensive regulations and rules describing the safest method to remove the lift truck battery in an efficient and safe manner.
Corrosives
It is essential to realize that lift truck batteries are filled with corrosive liquids which require proper safety precautions followed in order to handle them. Two of the most common forklift battery kinds include sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide. These are both extremely corrosive materials which can cause chemical burns to the skin, hands, face and eyes.