Forklift Battery Dangers
The main choice of lift trucks for a lot of warehouses or supply outlets are electric models that are needed to move equipment and heavy things out of and into storage. These machines are battery powered with big batteries allowing the lifting of heavy loads. Normally, warehouse employees are responsible for recharging the batteries or swapping them out during a shift. Although these batteries have been developed and designed with safety as the priority, there are still several issues a user has to know and things 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. Clearly, these extreme weight factors need mechanical assistance in order to safely charge and change the battery. About 50 percent of all injuries related to forklift batteries result from incorrect lifting and moving these heavy pieces of machinery. Sometimes jacks, specialized carts, or even other forklifts are utilized so as to move and transport heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of machinery would truly depend on how the handler safely affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, serious injuries can happen due to falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols which describe how and when the forklift battery will be charged. Most companies have extensive policies and rules describing the safest way to remove the lift truck battery in an efficient and safe manner.
Corrosives
In order to handle them, it is essential to know the battery is filled with corrosive liquids which require you to follow safety measures. Two of the most common lift truck battery types include sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide. These are both very corrosive materials which can result in chemical burns to the hands, skin, eyes and face.