Environmental Issues Regarding Electric Forklift Batteries
Electric forklifts are normally more stable and safer than diesel and gas powered forklifts. Gasoline and diesel engines emit toxic exhaust and pose a risk of fire. Nonetheless, electric forklifts can be dangerous, as well. They have rechargeable batteries as their power source, and batteries can present risks to the environment as well as to personal safety. There are hazards connected with the manufacture, use, storage and disposal of rechargeable batteries for lift trucks.
Manufacturing
Nearly all lift truck batteries are made by placing lead plates into a solution of sulfuric acid. These are known as lead-acid rechargeable batteries. Lead is toxic which, when utilized in manufacturing processes, poses hazards to water quality because of drainage and runoff. When lead enters a water system it could lead to various kinds of health problems to people and could even lead to death. The sulfuric acid utilized in lift truck batteries is very harmful to skin and can lead to severe burns. Sulfuric acid also produces toxic fumes that can cause damage to both humans and the natural environment.
Regular Storage and Use
Lead-acid batteries can produce hydrogen gas as a chemical byproduct when recharging. When recharging batteries for a lift truck or any other types of vehicle, flames, heat, smoking and sparks should be kept well away from the recharging site. The combustible hydrogen could cause an explosion if ignited by heat or flame.
If it touches the bare skin, sulfuric acid in the batteries could result in chemical burns. This is not an issue during normal use of the battery, but if a battery is damaged or punctured, the acid could spray or leak, potentially burning anybody who is nearby.
Disposal
Disposing of lead-acid batteries incorrectly should be avoided at all costs. The sulfuric acid could 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 bought within the United States include a "core charge" which will only be returned if the used battery is turned in.