Environmental Problems About Electric Lift Truck Batteries
Electric lift trucks are normally safer and more stable compared to diesel and gas powered lift trucks. Gasoline and diesel engines emit toxic exhaust and pose a risk of fire. However, electric lift trucks can be hazardous, also. They have rechargeable batteries as their power source, and batteries can present risks to the natural world as well as to personal safety. There are risks connected with the disposal, storage, manufacture and use of rechargeable batteries for forklifts.
Manufacturing
The forklift battery consists of lead plates being placed in a solution of sulfuric acid, which are known as lead-acid rechargeable batteries. Lead is a toxin which, when utilized in manufacturing processes, poses hazards to water quality because of runoff and drainage. Once lead enters a water system it can cause a range of health issues to people and could even be fatal. The sulfuric acid used in lift truck batteries is harmful to skin and could lead to severe burns. Sulfuric acid also produces noxious fumes that could cause damage to both the natural environment and to humans.
Normal Storage and Use
When recharging, the lead-acid battery can produce hydrogen gas as a chemical byproduct. When recharging batteries for a forklift or any other kinds of vehicle, smoking, sparks, heat and flames must be kept well away from the recharging place. The combustible hydrogen can lead to an explosion if ignited by flame or heat.
If it come into contact with bare skin, sulfuric acid in the batteries can cause chemical burns. This is not an issue 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 incorrectly must be avoided at all costs. The sulfuric acid could 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 within the United States include a "core charge" which would only be returned if the used battery is turned in.