Forklift Battery Dangers
The best choice of lift trucks for a lot of warehouses or supply outlets are electric models which are required to move equipment and heavy products out of and into storage. These machinery are battery powered with large batteries allowing the lifting of heavy loads. Normally, warehouse personnel are responsible for recharging the batteries or swapping them out during a shift. Though these batteries have been developed and designed with safety as the priority, there are still several problems a user should be aware of and stuff to be avoided when near the batteries.
Weight
Several forklift batteries could weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, depending upon the model. These extreme weights factors will need mechanical assistance to safely charge and change the battery. Roughly 50 percent of all injuries related to forklift batteries result from incorrect moving and lifting these heavy pieces of machines. Sometimes jacks, specialized carts, or even other forklifts are utilized so as to move and transport heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of machinery depends upon how the handler securely affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, severe injuries can happen due to falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols which describe when and how the lift truck battery would be charged. Most businesses have extensive rules and regulations describing the safest method to remove the forklift battery in a safe and efficient manner.
Corrosives
It is essential 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 very corrosive materials that can cause chemical burns to the hands, skin, eyes and face.