Safety Precautions when handling Batteries

1. Only personnel who have been trained in battery installation, charging and maintenance should be allowed to work on batteries. Batteries contain sulfuric acid, which causes severe burns, and charger malfunction can emit hydrogen gas, which is explosive.


2. Always assume the battery is emitting hydrogen gas and:

• Do not smoke, use an open flame, or create arcs or sparks in the vicinity of the battery.
• Charge the battery in a well-ventilated area with the cover of the battery or compartment raised for maximum ventilation.

3. Should you suspect a battery leak, assume the substance is sulfuric acid and:

• Do not get acid in eyes or skin or clothing. In case of contact, flush immediately and thoroughly with clean water. Obtain medical attention when eyes are affected.
• Apply a bicarbonate of soda solution (one pound to a gallon of water) to neutralize any acid spilled on clothing or material. Apply it until bubbling stops and rinse with clear water.
• Do not charge the battery at a current greater than 5.0 amp per 100 amp-hours capacity at end of charge.

4. Handle the battery with care. It is electrically live at all times.

• Keep the top of the battery clean and dry to prevent ground shorts and corrosion.
• Keep metal objects or chains away from the cell connectors; insulate all tools used in working on the battery to prevent short circuits. Also remove all jewelry & metallic items before working on the battery.

5. When lifting the battery:

• Use a spreader bar (a lifting device with two hooks that are electrically insulated from each other) or temporarily cover the top of all cells with an insulating material (plywood, thick rubber, etc.) to reduce the risk of a short circuit.
• Follow instructions on handling loads covered in OSHA 1910.179(n).

Receiving the Battery

1. Immediately examine the exterior of the packaging. Examine wet spots on the sides or bottom that may indicate the battery was damaged in shipment or was tipped over during transit.
2. If there is visible evidence of damage, the receipt should be marked “SHIPMENT RECEIVED DAMAGED.” The carrier should be notified immediately and asked to make a damage report.
3. If no visible evidence of damage is found when the shipment is received but is found during unpacking, immediately contact the carrier and request a concealed damage report.