Lift truck Battery Dangers
The main choice of forklifts for lots of supply outlets or warehouses are electric models that are required to move equipment and heavy items into and out off storage. These machines are battery powered with large batteries allowing the lifting of heavy cargo. Typically, warehouse personnel are responsible for swapping out the batteries or recharging them during a shift. Even if these batteries have been developed and designed with safety as the main concern, there are still some issues a user should be aware of and things to be prevented when in the vicinity of the batteries.
Weight
Some forklift batteries can weigh up to 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, depending upon the type. These extreme weights factors will need mechanical assistance to safely charge and change the battery. About 50 percent of all forklift battery-related injuries result from improper moving and lifting these heavy pieces of equipment. Sometimes jacks, other forklifts or even specialized carts are utilized in order to transport and move heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of equipment would truly depend upon how safely the handler affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, serious injuries can occur due to falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols that describe when and how the forklift battery would be charged. Nearly all companies have extensive rules and policies describing the safest way to remove the lift truck battery in an efficient and safe way.
Corrosives
In order to handle them, it is important to know the battery is filled with corrosive liquids which require you to follow safety measures. Two of the most common kinds of lift truck batteries include sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide. These are both really corrosive materials which can cause chemical burns to the hands, skin, eyes and face.