Forklift Battery Dangers
The best choice of lift trucks for numerous warehouses or supply outlets are electric models that are required to move equipment and heavy items into and out off storage. These machinery are battery powered with big batteries enabling the lifting of heavy cargo. 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 at the forefront, there are still some problems a handler should know and things to be avoided when near the batteries.
Weight
Depending on the type, several forklift batteries could weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Obviously, these extreme weight factors need mechanical assistance so as to safely charge and change the battery. Approximately 50 percent of all forklift battery-related injuries result from incorrect moving and lifting these heavy pieces of equipment. Sometimes 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 machine depends on how the handler safely affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, serious injuries could happen due to falling batteries.
There are strict protocols in the industry that describe how and when a lift truck battery should be charged. Most companies have extensive rules and regulations describing the safest way to remove the lift truck battery in an efficient and safe way.
Corrosives
It is important to know that forklift batteries are filled with corrosive liquids that need proper safety measures followed in order to handle them. Two of the most common forklift battery types include sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide. These are both really corrosive materials that can result in chemical burns to the hands, skin, eyes and face.