Environmental Issues About Electric Forklift Batteries
The electric lift truck is normally 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 though. They have rechargeable batteries as their power source, and batteries can present risks to personal safety as well as to the environment. There are hazards associated with the manufacture, use, disposal and storage of rechargeable batteries for forklifts.
Manufacturing
Nearly all forklift batteries are made by placing lead plates into a solution of sulfuric acid. These are called lead-acid rechargeable batteries. Lead is toxic that, when used in manufacturing processes, poses hazards to water quality because of drainage and runoff. When lead enters a water system it can result in different types of health problems to people and can even result in death. The sulfuric acid used in forklift batteries is harmful to skin and can cause severe burns. Sulfuric acid also produces harmful fumes which could cause damage to both the natural environment and to humans.
Regular Use and Storage
Lead-acid batteries can produce hydrogen gas as a chemical byproduct when recharging. When recharging batteries for a forklift or any other kinds of vehicle, sparks, smoking, flames and heat should be kept well away from the recharging site. The flammable hydrogen can lead to an explosion if ignited by heat or flame.
Sulfuric acid in the batteries could lead to chemical burns if it touches the bare skin. This is not a concern during normal use of the battery, but if a battery is damaged or punctured, the acid could spray or leak, potentially burning anyone 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 could be reused in new batteries. To prevent the serious environmental consequences of incorrect disposal, all lead-acid batteries sold or purchased within the United States include a "core charge" which would just be returned if the used battery is turned in.