Environmental Problems About Electric Lift Truck Batteries
Electric forklifts are usually more stable and safer than gas and diesel powered forklifts. Gasoline and diesel engines emit toxic exhaust and pose a risk of fire. Nonetheless, electric lift trucks can be dangerous, too. They have rechargeable batteries as their power source, and batteries could present risks to personal safety as well as to the environment. There are hazards associated with the disposal, storage, manufacture and use of rechargeable batteries for lift trucks.
Manufacturing
The lift truck battery consists of lead plates being placed in a solution of sulfuric acid, which are called lead-acid rechargeable batteries. Lead is a toxin that, when used in manufacturing processes, poses hazards to the quality of water because of runoff and drainage. When lead enters a water system it can cause a range of health problems to human beings and can even result in death. The sulfuric acid utilized in lift truck batteries is harmful to skin and could cause severe burns. Sulfuric acid also produces noxious fumes that could cause damage to human beings and the natural world.
Regular Storage and Use
When recharging, the lead-acid battery can produce hydrogen gas as a chemical byproduct. When recharging batteries for a lift truck or any other kinds of vehicle, flames, heat, smoking and sparks should be kept well away from the recharging place. The flammable hydrogen could lead to an explosion if ignited by flame or heat.
Sulfuric acid in the batteries can cause chemical burns if it comes into contact with bare skin. This is not an issue during normal use of the battery, but if a battery is damaged or punctured, the acid could leak or spray, potentially burning anybody who is nearby.
Disposal
Disposing of lead-acid batteries incorrectly should be avoided at all costs. The sulfuric acid can either be neutralized or recycled or can be reused in new batteries. To prevent the serious environmental consequences of incorrect disposal, all lead-acid batteries sold or purchased in the United States include a "core charge" that would just be returned if the used battery is turned in.