Lift truck Battery Dangers
Electric forklifts are the main choice by many supply outlets or warehouses that need to transport equipment and heavy things into and out off storage. These battery-powered devices could run quietly on large batteries and could lift heavy cargo. Usually, warehouse personnel are responsible for recharging the batteries or swapping them out during a shift. Even though these batteries have been developed and designed with safety as the priority, there are still some issues a user must know and things to be avoided when near the batteries.
Weight
Several forklift batteries can weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, depending upon the model. These extreme weights factors would need mechanical assistance to safely charge and change the battery. Roughly 50 percent of all lift truck battery-related injuries are caused by incorrect moving and lifting these heavy pieces of machines. At times jacks, specialized carts, or even other forklifts are used so as to move and transport heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of equipment depends on how safely the handler affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, serious injuries can happen because of falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols which describe when and how the lift truck battery would be charged. The majority of companies have extensive rules and regulations describing the safest method to remove the forklift battery in an efficient and safe manner.
Corrosives
In order to handle them, it is essential to know the battery is filled with corrosive liquids that require you to follow safety measures. Two of the most common forklift battery types include sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide. These are both extremely corrosive materials that could result in chemical burns to the skin, hands, eyes and face.