Forklift Battery Dangers
The main choice of forklifts for many supply outlets or warehouses are electric models which are needed to move equipment and heavy items out of and into storage. These devices are battery powered with large batteries enabling the lifting of heavy loads. Normally, warehouse employees are responsible for recharging the batteries or swapping them out during a shift. Though these batteries have been designed and developed with safety as the priority, there are still some issues a user needs to know and things to be prevented when in the vicinity of the batteries.
Weight
Depending on the type, some forklift batteries can weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Obviously, these extreme weight factors require mechanical assistance so as to safely charge and change the battery. Approximately 50 percent of all lift truck battery-related injuries are caused by improper lifting and moving these heavy pieces of equipment. Sometimes jacks, other forklifts or even specialized carts are utilized so as to transport and move heavy batteries. The overall success of using these pieces of machine will really depend on how safely the handler affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, serious injuries could happen due to falling batteries.
There are strict protocols within the industry that describe how and when a lift truck battery should be charged. The majority of businesses have extensive policies and rules describing the safest method 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 correct safety precautions followed in order to handle them. Two of the most common lift truck battery types include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both very corrosive materials that could result in chemical burns to the skin, hands, face and eyes.