Environmental Problems Regarding Electric Lift Truck Batteries
The electric lift truck is normally 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 lift truck is not without is hazards however. They have rechargeable batteries as their source of power, and batteries can present risks to the natural environment as well as to personal safety. There are risks associated with the disposal, storage, manufacture and use of rechargeable batteries for lift trucks.
Manufacturing
Nearly all 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 can lead to a variety of health problems to human beings and could even result in death. The sulfuric acid utilized in lift truck batteries is detrimental to skin and can cause severe burns. Sulfuric acid also produces harmful fumes that could cause damage to the natural world and to human beings.
Normal 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, sparks, smoking, flames and heat should be kept well away from the recharging site. The combustible hydrogen could result in an explosion if ignited by heat or flame.
If it touches the bare skin, sulfuric acid in the batteries can cause chemical burns. This is not an issue during normal use of the battery, but if a battery is punctured or damaged, the acid can 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 can be reused in new batteries. To prevent the serious environmental consequences of incorrect disposal, all lead-acid batteries sold or purchased within the United States include a "core charge" which would only be returned if the used battery is turned in.