Forklift Battery Dangers
Electric forklifts are the main choice by lots of supply outlets or warehouses which need to transport equipment and heavy things into and out off storage. These battery-powered devices can quietly run on large batteries and can lift heavy cargo. Typically, warehouse personnel are responsible for recharging the batteries or swapping them out during a shift. Even though these batteries have been designed and developed with safety at the forefront, there are still some problems a handler needs to be aware of and stuff to be avoided when in the vicinity of 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. Around 50 percent of all lift truck battery-related injuries are caused by improper moving and lifting these heavy pieces of machinery. Sometimes jacks, specialized carts, or even other forklifts are utilized so as to transport and move heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of machinery depends on how the handler safely affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, severe injuries could occur because of 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 method to remove the forklift battery in a safe and efficient manner.
Corrosives
It is essential to know that lift truck batteries are filled with corrosive liquids which require correct safety measures followed in order to handle them. Two of the most common types of lift truck batteries include sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide. These are both very corrosive materials which could result in chemical burns to the skin, hands, eyes and face.