Lift truck Battery Dangers
Electric forklifts are the main choice by lots of warehouses or supply outlets that need to move equipment and heavy items out of and into storage. These battery-powered devices could quietly run on large batteries and can lift heavy cargo. Usually, 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 at the forefront, there are still several issues a handler must be aware of and stuff to be prevented when near the batteries.
Weight
Depending upon the type, some forklift batteries can weigh up to 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Clearly, these extreme weight factors require mechanical assistance in order to safely charge and change the battery. Approximately 50% of all lift truck battery-related injuries result from improper lifting and moving these heavy pieces of machines. Sometimes jacks, other forklifts or even specialized carts are utilized so as to move and transport heavy batteries. The overall success of using these pieces of machinery would really depend on how the handler safely affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, severe injuries could occur because of falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols which describe when and how the forklift battery would be charged. Most businesses have extensive regulations and rules 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 that require proper 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 that can cause chemical burns to the skin, hands, face and eyes.