Lift truck Battery Dangers
The best choice of forklifts for lots of warehouses or supply outlets are electric models that are required to move equipment and heavy products out of and into storage. These devices are battery powered with huge batteries allowing the lifting of heavy cargo. Normally, warehouse employees are responsible for swapping out the batteries or recharging them during a shift. Even though these batteries have been developed and designed 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 on the model, several forklift batteries can weigh as much as 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 percent of all forklift battery-related injuries are caused by incorrect lifting and moving these heavy pieces of machinery. Sometimes jacks, other forklifts or even specialized carts are utilized so as to transport and move heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of machine will truly depend upon how securely the handler affixes the battery to the cart. Unfortunately, serious injuries could occur because of falling batteries.
The industry has strict protocols that describe how and when the lift truck battery would be charged. Most companies have extensive rules and policies describing the safest method to remove the lift truck battery in an efficient and safe way.
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 lift truck battery types include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both really corrosive materials that can cause chemical burns to the hands, skin, face and eyes.