Lift truck Battery Dangers
The main choice of lift trucks for numerous warehouses or supply outlets are electric models that are needed to transport equipment and heavy products out of and into storage. These machinery are battery powered with huge batteries allowing the lifting of 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 at the forefront, there are still several problems a user has to know and stuff to be prevented when in the vicinity of the batteries.
Weight
Several forklift batteries can weigh up to 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, depending upon the model. These extreme weights factors would need mechanical assistance to safely charge and change the battery. Around 50 percent of all forklift battery-related injuries are caused by incorrect lifting and moving these heavy pieces of equipment. At times jacks, other forklifts or even specialized carts are utilized so as to move and transport heavy batteries. The overall success of using these pieces of machine would truly depend on how the handler securely affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, severe injuries can occur because of falling batteries.
There are strict protocols within the industry which describe how and when a forklift battery must be charged. Most companies have extensive rules and policies describing the safest method to remove the forklift battery in an efficient and safe manner.
Corrosives
It is important to realize that lift truck batteries are filled with corrosive liquids which need correct safety precautions followed in order to handle them. Two of the most common lift truck battery kinds include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both extremely corrosive materials that could result in chemical burns to the skin, hands, eyes and face.