Forklift Battery Dangers
The main choice of forklifts for many warehouses or supply outlets are electric models that are required to move equipment and heavy items out of and into storage. These machinery are battery powered with huge batteries allowing the lifting of heavy loads. Typically, warehouse employees are responsible for recharging the batteries or swapping them out during a shift. Although these batteries have been developed and designed with safety as the priority, there are still several issues a user must be aware of and things to be avoided when near the batteries.
Weight
Depending upon the type, several forklift batteries could weigh up to 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Clearly, these extreme weight factors require mechanical assistance so as to safely charge and change the battery. About 50% of all injuries related to lift truck batteries result from incorrect moving and lifting these heavy pieces of machinery. 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 machine depends upon how the handler securely affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, serious injuries can occur due to falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols that describe how and when the lift truck battery would be charged. Most companies have extensive regulations and rules describing the safest way to remove the lift truck battery in an efficient and safe 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 forklift battery kinds include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both extremely corrosive materials that could lead to chemical burns to the skin, hands, eyes and face.