Environmental Concerns Regarding Electric Forklift Batteries
The electric lift truck is generally considered more safe and stable than diesel and gas powered internal combustion engines. Both gas and diesel engines pose a fire risk and emit harmful exhaust toxins. The electric forklift is not without is hazards however. They have rechargeable batteries as their power source, and batteries could present risks to personal safety as well as to the natural environment. There are hazards associated with the manufacture, use, disposal and storage of rechargeable batteries for lift trucks.
Manufacturing
The forklift battery consists of lead plates being placed in a solution of sulfuric acid, which are referred to as lead-acid rechargeable batteries. Lead is toxic that, when utilized in manufacturing processes, poses hazards to the quality of water due to runoff and drainage. Once lead enters a water system it could result in different types of health problems to people and could even be fatal. The sulfuric acid utilized in forklift batteries is detrimental to skin and can cause severe burns. Sulfuric acid also produces harmful fumes that could cause damage to the natural environment and to human beings.
Regular Storage and Use
When recharging, the lead-acid battery could produce hydrogen gas as a chemical byproduct. When recharging batteries for a forklift or any other kinds of vehicle, heat, flames, sparks and smoking should be kept well away from the recharging place. The flammable hydrogen can lead to an explosion if ignited by heat or flame.
If it come into contact with bare skin, sulfuric acid in the batteries could result in chemical burns. This is not a problem during normal use of the battery, but if a battery is damaged or punctured, the acid can 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 can be reused in new batteries. To avoid the serious environmental consequences of incorrect disposal, all lead-acid batteries sold or bought in the U.S. include a "core charge" that would only be returned if the used battery is turned in.