Lift truck Battery Dangers
Electric lift trucks are the main choice by many warehouses or supply outlets that have to transport equipment and heavy items into and out off storage. These battery-powered machinery can quietly run on big batteries and could lift heavy loads. Typically, warehouse employees are responsible for recharging the batteries or swapping them out during a shift. Even though these batteries have been developed and designed with safety at the forefront, there are still several issues a user should know and things to be prevented when near the batteries.
Weight
Some forklift batteries can weigh up to 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, depending upon the type. These extreme weights factors would need mechanical assistance to safely charge and change the battery. Around 50% of all forklift battery-related injuries are caused by incorrect lifting and moving these heavy pieces of equipment. At times jacks, specialized carts, or even other forklifts are used so as to transport and move heavy batteries. The overall success of using these pieces of equipment depends on how the handler safely affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, serious injuries could happen due to falling batteries.
There are strict protocols within the industry that describe when and how a lift truck battery should be charged. The majority of companies have extensive rules and policies describing the safest method to remove the forklift battery in a safe and efficient way.
Corrosives
In order to handle them, it is vital to know the battery is filled with corrosive liquids that require you to follow safety precautions. Two of the most common lift truck battery types include sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide. These are both really corrosive materials which can result in chemical burns to the skin, hands, face and eyes.