Environmental Problems Regarding Electric Forklift Batteries
Electric lift trucks are generally safer and more stable than diesel and gas powered forklifts. Gasoline and diesel engines emit toxic exhaust and pose a risk of fire. On the other hand, electric forklifts could be hazardous, as well. They have rechargeable batteries as their power source, and batteries could present risks to personal safety as well as to the natural environment. There are risks connected with the disposal, storage, use and manufacture of rechargeable batteries for forklifts.
Manufacturing
The forklift 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 utilized in manufacturing processes, poses hazards to water quality due to drainage and runoff. When lead enters a water system it could result in a variety of health issues to people and could even be fatal. The sulfuric acid utilized in forklift batteries is harmful to skin and can result in severe burns. Sulfuric acid also produces harmful fumes which can cause damage to both the natural world and to human beings.
Regular Use and Storage
When recharging, the lead-acid battery could produce hydrogen gas as a chemical byproduct. When recharging batteries for any types of vehicle or a forklift, flames, heat, smoking and sparks must be kept well away from the recharging place. The flammable hydrogen could lead to an explosion if ignited by heat or flame.
Sulfuric acid in the batteries could lead to chemical burns if it comes into contact with bare skin. This is not an issue during normal use of the battery, but if a battery is punctured or damaged, the acid could 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. To avoid the serious environmental consequences of incorrect disposal, all lead-acid batteries sold or bought within the United States include a "core charge" that will just be returned if the used battery is turned in.