Lift truck Battery Dangers
Electric lift trucks are the main choice by many supply outlets or warehouses which need to move equipment and heavy products out of and into storage. These battery-powered machinery are able to run quietly on large batteries and can lift heavy loads. Typically, warehouse personnel 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 should be aware of and things to be prevented when near the batteries.
Weight
Depending on the model, some 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% of all lift truck battery-related injuries are caused by improper lifting and moving these heavy pieces of equipment. At times jacks, specialized carts, or even other forklifts are utilized so as to move and transport heavy batteries. The overall success of using these pieces of machinery depends on how securely the handler affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, severe injuries can occur because of falling batteries.
There are strict protocols in the industry which describe when and how a lift truck battery must be charged. Most businesses have extensive policies and rules describing the safest way to remove the lift truck battery in a safe and efficient manner.
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 kinds of lift truck batteries include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both extremely corrosive materials which could result in chemical burns to the skin, hands, eyes and face.