Forklift Battery Dangers
The main choice of lift trucks for numerous supply outlets or warehouses are electric models which are required to move equipment and heavy things into and out off storage. These devices are battery powered with large batteries enabling the lifting of heavy cargo. Typically, warehouse employees are responsible for recharging the batteries or swapping them out during a shift. Even 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 near the batteries.
Weight
Depending upon the type, some forklift batteries can weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Clearly, these extreme weight factors need mechanical assistance so as to safely charge and change the battery. About 50 percent of all injuries related to forklift batteries result from improper lifting and moving these heavy pieces of machinery. Sometimes 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 equipment would really depend upon 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 forklift battery will be charged. Nearly all businesses have extensive regulations and rules describing the safest method to remove the forklift battery in a safe and efficient way.
Corrosives
It is vital to know that forklift batteries are filled with corrosive liquids that require correct safety measures followed in order to handle them. Two of the most common forklift battery kinds include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both extremely corrosive materials that can result in chemical burns to the skin, hands, face and eyes.