Environmental Problems Regarding Electric Lift Truck Batteries
The electric forklift is generally considered more stable and safe than gas and diesel 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 can present risks to the natural world as well as to personal safety. There are hazards connected with the manufacture, use, disposal and storage of rechargeable batteries for lift trucks.
Manufacturing
The lift truck battery consists of lead plates being placed in a solution of sulfuric acid, that are referred to as lead-acid rechargeable batteries. Lead is toxic that, when utilized in manufacturing processes, poses hazards to the quality of water because of drainage and runoff. Once lead enters a water system it could lead to a variety of health problems to living beings and could even be fatal. The sulfuric acid utilized in lift truck batteries is harmful to skin and could lead to severe burns. Sulfuric acid also produces noxious fumes which can cause damage to both humans and the natural world.
Normal 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 forklift, smoking, sparks, heat and flames must be kept well away from the recharging place. The flammable hydrogen can lead to an explosion if ignited by flame or heat.
Sulfuric acid in the batteries can result in chemical burns if it comes into contact with bare skin. This is not a problem during normal use of the battery, but if a battery is punctured or damaged, the acid could spray or leak, potentially burning anybody who is nearby.
Disposal
Disposing of lead-acid batteries improperly must be avoided at all costs. The sulfuric acid could either be recycled or neutralized or can be reused in new batteries. In order to avoid the serious environmental consequences of incorrect disposal, all lead-acid batteries bought or sold in the U.S. include a "core charge" that would only be returned if the used battery is turned in.