Forklift Battery Dangers
Electric lift trucks are the main choice by lots of warehouses or supply outlets which have to move equipment and heavy items into and out off storage. These battery-powered machinery can quietly run on large batteries and are capable of lifting heavy loads. Normally, warehouse personnel are responsible for recharging the batteries or swapping them out during a shift. Although these batteries have been developed and designed with safety as the main concern, there are still some issues a user must be aware of and things to be prevented when near the batteries.
Weight
Depending on the model, several forklift batteries could weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Clearly, these extreme weight factors need mechanical assistance in order to safely charge and change the battery. About 50% of all lift truck battery-related injuries are caused by incorrect 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 using these pieces of machinery will truly depend on how securely the handler affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, severe injuries could occur due to falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols which describe when and how the lift truck battery will be charged. Most companies have extensive rules and policies describing the safest way to remove the forklift battery in a safe and efficient manner.
Corrosives
In order to handle them, it is important to know the battery is filled with corrosive liquids that require you to follow safety precautions. Two of the most common types of forklift batteries include sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide. These are both extremely corrosive materials that could cause chemical burns to the skin, hands, eyes and face.