Forklift Battery Dangers
Electric lift trucks are the main choice by many warehouses or supply outlets which have to transport equipment and heavy products out of and into storage. These battery-powered machinery can quietly run on large batteries and could lift heavy cargo. Usually, warehouse employees are responsible for swapping out the batteries or recharging them during a shift. Though these batteries have been designed and developed with safety at the forefront, there are still several problems a handler must know and stuff to be avoided when in the vicinity of the batteries.
Weight
Some forklift batteries could weigh up to 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, depending upon the type. These extreme weights factors will require mechanical assistance to safely charge and change the battery. Approximately 50 percent of all injuries related to forklift batteries result from incorrect lifting and moving these heavy pieces of machines. At times jacks, other forklifts or even specialized carts are utilized so as to move and transport heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of machine would really depend on how the handler safely 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 would be charged. Most businesses have extensive rules and regulations describing the safest way to remove the lift truck battery in a safe and efficient manner.
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 forklift battery kinds include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both very corrosive materials which could result in chemical burns to the skin, hands, face and eyes.