Toyota entered the North American forklift market over 50 years ago and has manufactured over 750,000 forklifts on U.S. soil. Toyota Material Handling, based in Columbus, IN, is a full-service manufacturer and distributor of high-quality forklifts, reach trucks, order pickers, pallet jacks, container handlers, scissor lifts, tow tractors, AGVs, and other automated material handling solutions. Built on a reputation of excellence, Toyota remains popular due to its quality, durability, reliability and overall value.

Recycling Forklift Batteries

If you recognize that you’re in the market for a new battery, you can’t simply throw your old battery away. Batteries contain harmful toxins and corrosive materials such as mercury, cadmium, lithium, and lead that can negatively impact the environment and our health. Instead, they should be recycled.

Lead-acid batteries

When lead-acid batteries are recycled, the battery itself is separated into pieces and placed in a melting vat, where the heavy metal components are melted down and the melted plastic floats to the top. The acid from the battery can be neutralized and safely turned into water, or converted into sodium sulfate, which is commonly used to make fabrics and laundry detergent. The plastic components can even be reused to make new battery cases.

Lithium-ion batteries

Lithium-ion batteries can present a number of risks when not handled properly. Due to these risks, the U.S. Department of Transportation carefully monitors the handling, transferring, documenting, and disposal of lithium-ion batteries. In order to recycle a lithium-ion battery safely, the battery must first undergo a full discharge of its metallic lithium contents to prevent potential fires that can occur if it comes into contact with moisture.

Here are some of the recommendations you should consider when preparing your forklift battery for transport.

Always wear the appropriate PPE when handling batteries or other hazardous equipment. This may include gloves, goggles, etc.

Separate the battery terminals with wood or cardboard to prevent them from sparking off of one another, which could start a fire.

Secure the battery firmly during transport to prevent sliding.

Designated recycling locations for both lithium-ion and lead-acid battery vary depending on the manufacturer of the battery, type of battery, and the state you are in. Work with your local forklift dealer or your battery manufacturer to determine where your batteries should be taken for proper disposal.