Forklift Battery Dangers
Electric lift trucks are the main choice by many warehouses or supply outlets that have to move equipment and heavy items into and out off storage. These battery-powered machines are able to run quietly on large batteries and can lift heavy loads. Usually, warehouse employees are responsible for swapping out the batteries or recharging them during a shift. Though these batteries have been developed and designed with safety at the forefront, there are still several problems a user needs to be aware of and things to be avoided when near the batteries.
Weight
Depending on the model, some forklift batteries can weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Clearly, these extreme weight factors require mechanical assistance so as to safely charge and change the battery. Roughly 50% of all forklift battery-related injuries result from improper lifting and moving these heavy pieces of machines. At times jacks, other forklifts or even specialized carts are used 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. Sadly, severe injuries could occur due to falling batteries.
There are strict protocols in the industry which describe when and how a forklift battery must be charged. Nearly all businesses have extensive rules and regulations describing the safest method to remove the forklift battery in an efficient and safe manner.
Corrosives
In order to handle them, it is vital to realize the battery is filled with corrosive liquids which require you to follow safety precautions. Two of the most common lift truck battery kinds include sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide. These are both really corrosive materials which can result in chemical burns to the hands, skin, face and eyes.