Lift truck Battery Dangers
The best choice of lift trucks for a lot of supply outlets or warehouses are electric models that are needed to move equipment and heavy things into and out off storage. These devices are battery powered with big batteries allowing the lifting of heavy loads. Typically, warehouse employees are responsible for swapping out the batteries or recharging them during a shift. Even though these batteries have been designed and developed with safety as the priority, there are still some problems a handler has to know and things to be avoided when near the batteries.
Weight
Depending upon the model, several forklift batteries can weigh up to 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Clearly, these extreme weight factors require mechanical assistance so as to safely charge and change the battery. About 50 percent of all injuries related to forklift batteries are caused by improper lifting and moving these heavy pieces of machines. Sometimes jacks, specialized carts, or even other forklifts are used so as to move and transport heavy batteries. The overall success of using these pieces of equipment depends upon how the handler safely affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, severe injuries could happen because of falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols that describe when and how the forklift battery will be charged. Most businesses have extensive regulations and rules describing the safest way to remove the lift truck battery in a safe and efficient way.
Corrosives
It is essential to realize that lift truck batteries are filled with corrosive liquids which need correct safety precautions followed in order to handle them. Two of the most common types of forklift batteries include sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide. These are both extremely corrosive materials that could result in chemical burns to the hands, skin, eyes and face.