Lift truck Battery Dangers
The best choice of forklifts for lots of warehouses or supply outlets are electric models which are needed to transport equipment and heavy products into and out off storage. These machinery are battery powered with huge batteries enabling the lifting of heavy cargo. Typically, warehouse employees are responsible for swapping out the batteries or recharging them during a shift. Even if these batteries have been designed and developed with safety as the priority, there are still several issues a user should know and things to be avoided when in the vicinity of the batteries.

Weight
Several forklift batteries can 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. Approximately 50% of all injuries related to forklift batteries are caused by improper moving and lifting these heavy pieces of machinery. Sometimes jacks, specialized carts, or even other forklifts are utilized in order to move and transport heavy batteries. The overall success of utilizing these pieces of equipment will truly depend on how securely the handler affixes the battery to the cart. Sadly, severe injuries can happen because of falling batteries.

There are strict protocols in the industry which describe when and how a forklift battery must be charged. The majority of companies have extensive rules and policies describing the safest method to remove the lift truck battery in a safe and efficient way.

Corrosives
In order to handle them, it is important to realize the battery is filled with corrosive liquids which require you to follow safety precautions. Two of the most common types of forklift batteries include potassium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. These are both very corrosive materials that can cause chemical burns to the skin, hands, face and eyes.