Forklift Battery Dangers
Electric lift trucks are the main choice by lots of supply outlets or warehouses which have to transport equipment and heavy products into and out off storage. These battery-powered machinery are able to run quietly on large batteries and are capable of lifting heavy loads. Usually, warehouse employees are responsible for recharging the batteries or swapping them out during a shift. Although these batteries have been developed and designed with safety at the forefront, there are still some issues a user has to be aware of and stuff to be avoided when near the batteries.
Weight
Several 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. About 50% of all forklift battery-related injuries result from improper moving and lifting these heavy pieces of machinery. Sometimes 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 on how the handler securely affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, severe injuries could happen because of falling batteries.
There are strict protocols in the industry which describe when and how a lift truck battery should be charged. The majority of companies have extensive rules and regulations describing the safest method to remove the forklift battery in an efficient and safe way.
Corrosives
In order to handle them, it is essential to know the battery is filled with corrosive liquids that require you to follow safety measures. Two of the most common forklift battery kinds include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both very corrosive materials which could cause chemical burns to the hands, skin, face and eyes.