Lift truck Battery Dangers
Electric forklifts are the main choice by numerous supply outlets or warehouses which have to transport equipment and heavy items out of and into storage. These battery-powered devices could run quietly on big batteries and can lift heavy loads. Typically, warehouse personnel 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 main concern, there are still some problems a user must be aware of and stuff to be prevented when in the vicinity of the batteries.
Weight
Depending on the model, several forklift batteries could weigh up to 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Obviously, these extreme weight factors need mechanical assistance so as to safely charge and change the battery. About 50 percent of all injuries related to forklift batteries result from improper lifting and moving these heavy pieces of equipment. At times jacks, other forklifts or even specialized carts are utilized in order to transport and move heavy batteries. The overall success of using these pieces of equipment depends on how the handler securely affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, severe injuries can happen due to falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols which describe how and when the forklift battery will be charged. The majority of companies have extensive rules and policies describing the safest method to remove the forklift battery in an efficient and safe way.
Corrosives
It is vital to know that lift truck batteries are filled with corrosive liquids which need proper safety measures followed in order to handle them. Two of the most common kinds of lift truck batteries include sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide. These are both extremely corrosive materials which could result in chemical burns to the skin, hands, eyes and face.