Forklift Battery Dangers
The best choice of forklifts for lots of warehouses or supply outlets are electric models which are required to move equipment and heavy things into and out off storage. These machinery are battery powered with large batteries allowing the lifting of 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 at the forefront, there are still some problems a handler has to be aware of and stuff to be avoided when in the vicinity of the batteries.
Weight
Depending upon the model, some forklift batteries could weigh up to 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Clearly, these extreme weight factors need mechanical assistance in order to safely charge and change the battery. Roughly 50% of all injuries related to forklift batteries are caused by incorrect 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 equipment will truly depend on how securely 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 when and how a forklift battery should be charged. Most businesses have extensive policies and rules describing the safest method to remove the lift truck battery in a safe and efficient way.
Corrosives
In order to handle them, it is essential to know the battery is filled with corrosive liquids which require you to follow safety precautions. Two of the most common types of lift truck batteries include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both really corrosive materials that can cause chemical burns to the hands, skin, eyes and face.