Lift truck Battery Dangers
Electric lift trucks are the main choice by numerous supply outlets or warehouses which need to transport equipment and heavy items out of and into storage. These battery-powered devices could quietly run on large batteries and are capable of lifting heavy cargo. Normally, warehouse personnel are responsible for recharging the batteries or swapping them out during a shift. Even if these batteries have been developed and designed with safety at the forefront, there are still some problems a handler needs to be aware of and things to be avoided when in the vicinity of the batteries.
Weight
Depending upon the model, some forklift batteries can weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Clearly, these extreme weight factors require mechanical assistance in order to safely charge and change the battery. Around 50 percent of all injuries related to lift truck batteries are caused by incorrect moving and lifting these heavy pieces of machines. Sometimes jacks, other forklifts or even specialized carts are used so as to transport and move heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of equipment depends upon how securely the handler affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, severe injuries could occur because of falling batteries.
There are strict protocols within the industry which describe when and how a forklift battery should be charged. Nearly all 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 vital to realize that forklift batteries are filled with corrosive liquids that require correct 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 really corrosive materials which could result in chemical burns to the skin, hands, face and eyes.