Forklift Battery Dangers
The main choice of forklifts for many warehouses or supply outlets are electric models which are required to transport equipment and heavy products out of and into storage. These machines are battery powered with large batteries enabling the lifting of heavy cargo. Usually, warehouse employees are responsible for swapping out the batteries or recharging them during a shift. Though these batteries have been designed and developed with safety at the forefront, there are still some problems a handler needs to know and stuff to be avoided when near the batteries.
Weight
Some forklift batteries could weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, depending upon the type. These extreme weights factors will need mechanical assistance to safely charge and change the battery. Approximately 50% of all injuries related to lift truck batteries result from improper lifting and moving these heavy pieces of machinery. Sometimes jacks, specialized carts, or even other forklifts are utilized in order to move and transport heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of equipment depends on how the handler securely affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, severe injuries could occur because of falling batteries.
There are strict protocols in the industry that describe when and how a forklift battery must be charged. Nearly all businesses have extensive policies and rules describing the safest method to remove the lift truck battery in a safe and efficient way.
Corrosives
It is vital to realize that lift truck batteries are filled with corrosive liquids which need correct safety measures followed in order to handle them. Two of the most common types of lift truck batteries include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both very corrosive materials which can cause chemical burns to the skin, hands, eyes and face.