Lift truck Battery Dangers
The best choice of forklifts for many supply outlets or warehouses are electric models that are needed to move equipment and heavy items out of and into storage. These machines are battery powered with huge batteries enabling the lifting of heavy loads. Normally, warehouse personnel are responsible for recharging the batteries or swapping them out during a shift. Although these batteries have been designed and developed with safety as the main concern, there are still some issues a user should be aware of and things to be prevented when near the batteries.
Weight
Depending on the type, several forklift batteries could weigh up to 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Obviously, these extreme weight factors require mechanical assistance so as to safely charge and change the battery. Around 50 percent of all injuries related to forklift batteries result from improper moving and lifting these heavy pieces of equipment. 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 upon how the handler securely affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, severe injuries can occur because of falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols which describe when and how the forklift battery would be charged. Most companies have extensive rules and policies describing the safest method to remove the lift truck battery in an efficient and safe way.
Corrosives
In order to handle them, it is vital to know the battery is filled with corrosive liquids that require you to follow safety measures. Two of the most common types of lift truck batteries include sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide. These are both very corrosive materials that can result in chemical burns to the hands, skin, eyes and face.