Lift truck Battery Dangers
Electric lift trucks are the best choice by many supply outlets or warehouses which have to move equipment and heavy items into and out off storage. These battery-powered devices are able to run quietly on big batteries and can lift heavy loads. Normally, 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 as the main concern, there are still some problems a handler must be aware of and stuff to be avoided when near the batteries.
Weight
Some forklift batteries can weigh up to 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, depending upon the model. These extreme weights factors will require mechanical assistance to safely charge and change the battery. Approximately 50 percent of all lift truck battery-related injuries result from improper 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 using these pieces of machinery would truly depend upon how safely the handler affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, severe injuries can happen due to falling batteries.
There are strict protocols in the industry that describe how and when a lift truck battery must be charged. Nearly all businesses have extensive rules and policies describing the safest method to remove the forklift battery in a safe and efficient 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 types include sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide. These are both extremely corrosive materials which can cause chemical burns to the skin, hands, eyes and face.