Lift truck Battery Dangers
Electric lift trucks are the main choice by lots of supply outlets or warehouses that have to transport equipment and heavy products into and out off storage. These battery-powered devices could run quietly on large batteries and could lift heavy loads. Normally, warehouse employees are responsible for swapping out the batteries or recharging them during a shift. Although these batteries have been developed and designed with safety at the forefront, there are still some problems a user must be aware of and stuff to be prevented when near the batteries.
Weight
Several forklift batteries can weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, depending upon the type. These extreme weights factors will require mechanical assistance to safely charge and change the battery. Roughly 50% of all lift truck battery-related injuries are caused by incorrect moving and lifting these heavy pieces of machines. At times jacks, specialized carts, or even other forklifts are used in order to transport and move heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of machinery will really depend on how safely the handler affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, serious injuries can occur due to falling batteries.
There are strict protocols in the industry that describe how and when a lift truck battery must be charged. The majority of businesses have extensive regulations and rules describing the safest way to remove the lift truck battery in a safe and efficient manner.
Corrosives
In order to handle them, it is vital to realize the battery is filled with corrosive liquids that require you to follow safety measures. Two of the most common types of lift truck batteries include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both very corrosive materials that can lead to chemical burns to the skin, hands, eyes and face.