Lift truck Battery Dangers
Electric lift trucks are the best choice by numerous warehouses or supply outlets which have to move equipment and heavy products into and out off storage. These battery-powered machines 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. Although these batteries have been designed and developed with safety at the forefront, there are still some problems a user should be aware of and stuff to be avoided 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. Obviously, these extreme weight factors require mechanical assistance in order to safely charge and change the battery. Around 50% of all lift truck battery-related injuries result from incorrect lifting and moving these heavy pieces of machinery. At times jacks, specialized carts, or even other forklifts are utilized in order to move and transport heavy batteries. The overall success of using these pieces of machinery depends upon how the handler safely affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, serious injuries could occur due to falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols which describe when and how the forklift battery would be charged. Most companies have extensive policies and rules describing the safest method to remove the lift truck battery in an efficient and safe manner.
Corrosives
It is essential to realize that forklift batteries are filled with corrosive liquids that need proper safety measures followed in order to handle them. Two of the most common lift truck battery kinds include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both really corrosive materials which can result in chemical burns to the skin, hands, face and eyes.