Forklift Battery Dangers
Electric forklifts are the best choice by many supply outlets or warehouses which have to move equipment and heavy products into and out off storage. These battery-powered machines could run quietly on big batteries and can lift heavy loads. Usually, warehouse employees are responsible for swapping out the batteries or recharging them during a shift. Even if these batteries have been developed and designed with safety as the main concern, there are still several issues a handler must know and stuff to be prevented when near the batteries.
Weight
Some forklift batteries could 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. Roughly 50% of all injuries related to forklift batteries result from improper moving and lifting these heavy pieces of equipment. At times jacks, other forklifts or even specialized carts are utilized in order to transport and move heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of machine would really depend on how the handler securely affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, severe injuries can occur because of falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols that describe how and when the lift truck battery will be charged. The majority of companies have extensive rules and regulations describing the safest way to remove the forklift battery in an efficient and safe manner.
Corrosives
It is important to realize that forklift batteries are filled with corrosive liquids which require proper safety precautions followed in order to handle them. Two of the most common forklift battery kinds include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both really corrosive materials that could cause chemical burns to the hands, skin, face and eyes.