Forklift Battery Dangers
Electric forklifts are the main choice by lots of supply outlets or warehouses that need to move equipment and heavy items into and out off storage. These battery-powered devices could run quietly on large batteries and are capable of lifting heavy cargo. Typically, warehouse employees are responsible for swapping out the batteries or recharging them during a shift. Though these batteries have been designed and developed with safety as the priority, there are still some problems a user must be aware of and things to be avoided when near the batteries.
Weight
Some forklift batteries could weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, depending upon the model. These extreme weights factors will require mechanical assistance to safely charge and change the battery. Roughly 50% of all lift truck battery-related injuries result from incorrect lifting and moving these heavy pieces of equipment. At times jacks, specialized carts, or even other forklifts are used in order to transport and move heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of machinery depends upon how the handler safely affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, severe injuries can happen due to falling batteries.
There are strict protocols in the industry which describe when and how a lift truck battery should be charged. Nearly all businesses have extensive rules and regulations describing the safest way to remove the lift truck battery in an efficient and safe way.
Corrosives
In order to handle them, it is vital to realize the battery is filled with corrosive liquids that require you to follow safety measures. Two of the most common lift truck battery types include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both very corrosive materials that can result in chemical burns to the skin, hands, eyes and face.