Lift truck Battery Dangers
Electric forklifts are the main choice by many warehouses or supply outlets which need to move equipment and heavy things out of and into storage. These battery-powered devices can run quietly on big batteries and are capable of lifting heavy loads. Normally, warehouse personnel are responsible for recharging the batteries or swapping them out during a shift. Though these batteries have been designed and developed with safety as the main concern, there are still several issues a user must know and stuff to be prevented when in the vicinity of the batteries.
Weight
Some forklift batteries could weigh up to 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, depending upon the type. These extreme weights factors will require mechanical assistance to safely charge and change the battery. Approximately 50 percent of all forklift 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 utilized in order to transport and move heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of machine depends upon how the handler safely affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, serious injuries can occur because of falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols which describe how and when the forklift battery would be charged. Nearly all companies have extensive rules and regulations describing the safest way to remove the forklift battery in a safe and efficient manner.
Corrosives
It is important to know that forklift batteries are filled with corrosive liquids that need correct safety measures followed in order to handle them. Two of the most common lift truck battery types include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both extremely corrosive materials which can result in chemical burns to the skin, hands, face and eyes.