Lift truck Battery Dangers
The main choice of lift trucks for lots of warehouses or supply outlets are electric models that are needed to transport equipment and heavy products out of and into storage. These machines are battery powered with huge batteries enabling the lifting of heavy cargo. Usually, 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 user must be aware of and things to be prevented when in the vicinity of the batteries.
Weight
Depending upon the model, several forklift batteries could weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Clearly, these extreme weight factors need mechanical assistance in order to safely charge and change the battery. Roughly 50% of all injuries related to lift truck batteries are caused by incorrect moving and lifting these heavy pieces of equipment. At times jacks, other forklifts or even specialized carts are used so as to move and transport heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of machinery will truly depend upon how safely the handler affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, serious injuries can occur because of falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols that describe how and when the lift truck battery will be charged. Nearly all companies have extensive policies and rules describing the safest method to remove the forklift battery in a safe and efficient manner.
Corrosives
It is vital to realize that forklift batteries are filled with corrosive liquids that require proper safety measures followed in order to handle them. Two of the most common forklift battery types include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both extremely corrosive materials which could cause chemical burns to the skin, hands, face and eyes.