Environmental Issues Regarding Electric Lift Truck Batteries
The electric lift truck is usually considered more stable and safe compared to diesel and gas powered internal combustion engines. Both diesel and gas 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 could present risks to personal safety as well as to the environment. There are risks connected with the storage, disposal, use and manufacture of rechargeable batteries for lift trucks.
Manufacturing
The majority of forklift batteries are made by placing lead plates into a solution of sulfuric acid. These are referred to as lead-acid rechargeable batteries. Lead is toxic that, when utilized in manufacturing processes, poses hazards to the quality of water due to drainage and runoff. Once lead enters a water system it could lead to a variety of health problems to people and can even lead to death. The sulfuric acid used in forklift batteries is very harmful to skin and can cause severe burns. Sulfuric acid also produces noxious fumes which could cause damage to both humans and the natural world.
Regular Storage and Use
When recharging, the lead-acid battery could produce hydrogen gas as a chemical byproduct. When recharging batteries for a forklift or any other types of vehicle, flames, heat, smoking and sparks must be kept well away from the recharging place. The flammable hydrogen could result in an explosion if ignited by flame or heat.
Sulfuric acid in the batteries can 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 can leak or spray, potentially burning anybody who is nearby.
Disposal
Disposing of lead-acid batteries improperly must be avoided at all costs. The sulfuric acid can either be recycled or neutralized or could be reused in new batteries. In order to prevent the serious environmental consequences of incorrect disposal, all lead-acid batteries sold or purchased in the United States include a "core charge" that would only be returned if the used battery is turned in.