Forklift Battery Dangers
Electric forklifts are the main choice by a lot of supply outlets or warehouses which need to move equipment and heavy things out of and into storage. These battery-powered machinery are able to run quietly on large batteries and can lift heavy loads. Normally, warehouse employees are responsible for swapping out the batteries or recharging them during a shift. Although these batteries have been developed and designed with safety as the main concern, there are still some problems a handler must know and things to be avoided when near the batteries.
Weight
Depending upon the model, several forklift batteries can weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Obviously, these extreme weight factors require mechanical assistance in order to safely charge and change the battery. About 50% of all injuries related to lift truck batteries are caused by incorrect moving and lifting these heavy pieces of equipment. Sometimes jacks, specialized carts, or even other forklifts are used so as to transport and move heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of machine will really depend upon how the handler securely affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, severe injuries could happen because of falling batteries.
There are strict protocols in the industry which describe when and how a lift truck battery should be charged. Nearly all companies have extensive regulations and rules describing the safest method to remove the forklift battery in a safe and efficient way.
Corrosives
It is essential to know that forklift batteries are filled with corrosive liquids that require proper safety measures followed in order to handle them. Two of the most common types of forklift batteries include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both very corrosive materials which could cause chemical burns to the hands, skin, eyes and face.