Environmental Issues Regarding Electric Forklift Batteries
The electric lift truck is normally considered more stable and safe than diesel and gas powered IC engines. Both gas and diesel engines pose a fire risk and emit harmful exhaust toxins. The electric lift truck is not without is hazards however. 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 hazards connected with the disposal, storage, manufacture and use of rechargeable batteries for forklifts.
Manufacturing
The lift truck battery consists of lead plates being placed in a sulfuric acid solution, which are referred to as lead-acid rechargeable batteries. Lead is toxic that, when utilized in manufacturing processes, poses hazards to water quality because of runoff and drainage. Once lead enters a water system it can cause a range of health problems to people and can even lead to death. The sulfuric acid utilized in lift truck batteries is harmful to skin and can cause severe burns. Sulfuric acid also produces noxious fumes that can 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 a lift truck or any other kinds of vehicle, flames, heat, sparks and smoking should be kept well away from the recharging place. The combustible hydrogen can cause an explosion if ignited by heat or flame.
Sulfuric acid in the batteries could 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 damaged or punctured, the acid could leak or spray, potentially burning anyone who is nearby.
Disposal
Disposing of lead-acid batteries improperly should be avoided at all costs. The sulfuric acid could either be recycled or neutralized or could be reused in new batteries. To avoid the serious environmental consequences of wrong disposal, all lead-acid batteries purchased or sold within the U.S. include a "core charge" that would just be returned if the used battery is turned in.