Environmental Issues About Electric Forklift Batteries
Electric lift trucks are normally more stable and safer compared to gas and diesel powered forklifts. Diesel and gasoline engines emit toxic exhaust and pose a risk of fire. However, electric lift trucks can be hazardous, as well. They have rechargeable batteries as their source of power, and batteries could present risks to the environment as well as to personal safety. There are hazards 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, that are referred to as lead-acid rechargeable batteries. Lead is a toxin that, when utilized in manufacturing processes, poses hazards to water quality due to drainage and runoff. Once lead enters a water system it can cause a range of health issues to human beings and could even cause death. The sulfuric acid utilized in forklift batteries is detrimental to skin and can lead to severe burns. Sulfuric acid also produces toxic fumes which can cause damage to human beings and the environment.
Normal Storage and Use
Lead-acid batteries can produce hydrogen gas as a chemical byproduct when recharging. When recharging batteries for any types of vehicle or a lift truck, flames, heat, sparks and smoking must be kept well away from the recharging site. The combustible hydrogen can cause an explosion if ignited by heat or flame.
Sulfuric acid in the batteries can lead to 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 anyone who is nearby.
Disposal
Disposing of lead-acid batteries incorrectly must be avoided at all costs. The sulfuric acid could either be recycled or neutralized or could be reused in new batteries. In order to prevent the serious environmental consequences of wrong disposal, all lead-acid batteries sold or bought in the United States include a "core charge" which will only be returned if the used battery is turned in.