Environmental Issues Regarding Electric Forklift Batteries
Electric forklifts are usually safer and more stable than diesel and gas powered lift trucks. Diesel and gasoline engines emit toxic exhaust and pose a risk of fire. On the other hand, electric forklifts can be hazardous, as well. They have rechargeable batteries as their source of power, and batteries could present risks to the natural environment as well as to personal safety. There are hazards associated with the use, manufacture, storage and disposal 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 called lead-acid rechargeable batteries. Lead is toxic that, when used in manufacturing processes, poses hazards to the quality of water due to drainage and runoff. Once lead enters a water system it can result in various types of health problems to human beings and could even lead to death. The sulfuric acid used in lift truck batteries is harmful to skin and could lead to severe burns. Sulfuric acid also produces noxious fumes which could cause damage to both humans and the environment.
Regular Storage and Use
When recharging, the lead-acid battery can produce hydrogen gas as a chemical byproduct. When recharging batteries for a forklift or any other types of vehicle, sparks, smoking, heat and flames must be kept well away from the recharging site. The flammable hydrogen can result in an explosion if ignited by heat or flame.
If it touches the bare skin, sulfuric acid in the batteries could result in chemical burns. This is not a concern 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 incorrectly must be avoided at all costs. The sulfuric acid could either be neutralized or recycled or could be reused in new batteries. In order to avoid the serious environmental consequences of incorrect disposal, all lead-acid batteries purchased or sold in the United States include a "core charge" that will just be returned if the used battery is turned in.