Environmental Problems Regarding Electric Forklift Batteries
Electric forklifts are usually more stable and safer compared to gas and diesel powered lift trucks. Diesel and gasoline engines emit toxic exhaust and pose a risk of fire. On the other hand, electric lift trucks can be dangerous, as well. They have rechargeable batteries as their source of power, and batteries can present risks to the environment as well as to personal safety. There are risks connected 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 referred to as lead-acid rechargeable batteries. Lead is toxic that, when used in manufacturing processes, poses hazards to water quality due to drainage and runoff. When lead enters a water system it could lead to a variety of health issues to human beings and can even be fatal. The sulfuric acid utilized in forklift batteries is harmful to skin and can cause severe burns. Sulfuric acid also produces harmful fumes that could cause damage to humans and the natural environment.
Regular Storage and Use
When recharging, the lead-acid battery can produce hydrogen gas as a chemical byproduct. When recharging batteries for any types of vehicle or a lift truck, smoking, sparks, heat and flames should be kept well away from the recharging place. The combustible hydrogen could lead to an explosion if ignited by flame or heat.
If it come into contact with bare skin, sulfuric acid in the batteries could cause 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
Improper disposal of lead-acid batteries should always be avoided. These batteries should be recycled properly or reused in new batteries so that the sulfuric acid could either be neutralized or recycled. In order to prevent the serious environmental consequences of incorrect disposal, all lead-acid batteries sold or bought within the U.S. include a "core charge" that will just be returned if the used battery is turned in.