Environmental Problems About Electric Forklift Batteries
The electric forklift is usually considered more safe and stable compared to gas and diesel powered internal combustion engines. Both diesel and gas engines pose a fire risk and emit harmful exhaust toxins. The electric lift truck is not without is hazards though. They have rechargeable batteries as their source of power, and batteries could present risks to personal safety as well as to the natural environment. There are hazards associated with the use, manufacture, storage and disposal of rechargeable batteries for forklifts.
Manufacturing
The majority of lift truck batteries are made by placing lead plates into a solution of sulfuric acid. These are referred to as lead-acid rechargeable batteries. Lead is toxic which, when utilized in manufacturing processes, poses hazards to water quality due to runoff and drainage. Once lead enters a water system it can cause a variety of health problems to people and could even lead to death. The sulfuric acid used in forklift batteries is very detrimental to skin and could result in severe burns. Sulfuric acid also produces noxious fumes which can cause damage to both the natural world and to humans.
Normal Storage and Use
Lead-acid batteries can produce hydrogen gas as a chemical byproduct when recharging. When recharging batteries for any kinds of vehicle or a forklift, sparks, smoking, flames and heat should be kept well away from the recharging place. The flammable hydrogen could result in an explosion if ignited by heat or flame.
If it come into contact with bare skin, sulfuric acid in the batteries can result in chemical burns. This is not a problem during normal use of the battery, but if a battery is punctured or damaged, the acid could spray or leak, potentially burning anyone who is nearby.
Disposal
Disposing of lead-acid batteries improperly must be avoided at all costs. The sulfuric acid can either be neutralized or recycled or could be reused in new batteries. To be able to prevent the serious environmental consequences of wrong disposal, all lead-acid batteries bought or sold in the United States include a "core charge" which would just be returned if the used battery is turned in.