Lift truck Battery Dangers
Electric lift trucks are the main choice by lots of supply outlets or warehouses that have to move equipment and heavy items out of and into storage. These battery-powered machinery could run quietly on large batteries and are capable of lifting heavy loads. Typically, warehouse employees are responsible for recharging the batteries or swapping them out during a shift. Even though these batteries have been designed and developed with safety at the forefront, there are still several issues a handler has to know and stuff to be prevented when near the batteries.
Weight
Depending upon the model, several forklift batteries could weigh as much as 2000 lbs. or 1 ton, even more. Clearly, these extreme weight factors need mechanical assistance in order to safely charge and change the battery. Around 50 percent of all injuries related to forklift batteries result from improper moving and lifting these heavy pieces of equipment. At times jacks, specialized carts, or even other forklifts are used so as to move and transport heavy batteries. The overall success of using these pieces of machinery depends on how the handler safely affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, serious injuries can occur due to falling batteries.
There are strict protocols within the industry which describe when and how a forklift battery must be charged. Most companies have extensive rules and regulations describing the safest way to remove the lift truck battery in an efficient and safe manner.
Corrosives
In order to handle them, it is vital 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 sulfuric acid and potassium hydroxide. These are both very corrosive materials that could result in chemical burns to the hands, skin, face and eyes.