Forklift Battery Dangers
Electric forklifts are the main choice by lots of warehouses or supply outlets that need to move equipment and heavy products into and out off storage. These battery-powered machines can run quietly on large batteries and are capable of lifting heavy loads. Usually, warehouse personnel are responsible for swapping out the batteries or recharging them during a shift. Although these batteries have been designed and developed with safety as the priority, there are still some issues a user must be aware of and stuff to be avoided when in the vicinity of the batteries.
Weight
Some forklift batteries can weigh up to 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, depending upon the model. These extreme weights factors will need mechanical assistance to safely charge and change the battery. Roughly 50 percent of all injuries related to forklift batteries result from improper moving and lifting these heavy pieces of machinery. Sometimes jacks, other forklifts or even specialized carts are used so as to transport and move heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of machinery would really depend upon how securely the handler affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, serious injuries could occur because of falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols that describe how and when the lift truck battery will be charged. The majority of businesses have extensive regulations and rules describing the safest method to remove the forklift battery in a safe and efficient way.
Corrosives
It is important to know that forklift batteries are filled with corrosive liquids that require correct safety precautions followed in order to handle them. Two of the most common kinds of forklift batteries include sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide. These are both extremely corrosive materials that could cause chemical burns to the skin, hands, eyes and face.