SAFTY PRECAUTIONS WITH LEAD ACID BATTERIES

Hazards Associated With Industrial BatteriesHydrogen Gas

Sulfuric Acid

Shock

Weight of the Battery

Hydrogen GasA by-product of the batterys charging process.

Lighter than air.

Flammable in nature.

Explosive mixture at 4 74% by volume of air.

Can not taste or see the gas vapors. You can smell the acid in the battery if it heats up.

Acid HazardsPh

Electrical HazardExposed terminals, even on disconnected batteries, present an electrical shock hazard. Some battery systems are capable of discharging at extremely high rates of current. Accidental shorting of terminals or cables can result in severe electrical arcing, causing burns and electric shock to nearby personnel

Electrical Safety Precautions Never touch both battery terminals with your bare hands at the same time!

Remove rings, watches and dangling jewelry when working with or near batteries. The metal in the jewelry can cause a shock or burn if they contact the battery terminals.

Only use insulated/non-conducting tools to remove cell caps. Never lay tools or other metal parts on top of a battery.

Electrical Safety Precautions Consider covering battery terminals and connectors if possible with an insulating blanket before overhead inspections or repairs

Ensure charger is turned off before connecting or disconnecting a battery to prevent arcing

Electrical HazardEvent-Worker lost control of a jumper wire while working above battery bankEnds of jumper were not insulated and blanket was not installed over battery terminalsEvent resulted in severe arcing and potential for injury to worker

Fire and Explosion Precautions Do not smoke in battery charging areas.

Prevent open flames, sparks or electric arcs in battery charging areas.

Do not strike the sides of the battery with any spark producing item.

Keep tools and other metallic objects away from uncovered batteries.

Have an ABC dry chemical fire extinguisher in charging areas or readily available.

Battery ExplosionsEvent-This starting battery exploded during a load test for a diesel generatorExplosion can expel debris and battery acid resulting in burns and injury to nearby personnel

Handling Battery AcidUse extreme caution when handling electrolyte and keep an acid neutralizing solutionsuch as baking soda readily available Always wear proper eye, face and hand protection. Use non-metallic containers to handle liquid

If the electrolyte is splashed into an eye, immediately force the eye open and flood it with clean, cool water for at least 15 minutes. Get prompt medical attention.

Handling Battery AcidIf electrolyte is taken internally, drink large quantities of water or milk. DO NOT induce vomiting. Call a physician immediately. Neutralize with baking soda any electrolyte that spills on a vehicle or in the work area. After neutralizing, rinse contaminated area clean with water. To prepare electrolyte of a desired specific gravity, always pour the concentrated acid slowly into the water; DO NOT pour water into the acid. Always stir the water while adding small amounts of acid. If noticeable heat develops, allow the solution to cool before continuing to add acid.

Changing BatteriesIndustrial batteries used to power mobile equipment can weight MORE.

Ensure the battery is securely locked in place prior to pulling away from the battery changing area.

Do not attempt to stop a battery if it slides out of the equipment.

Safe Handling of BatteriesUse appropriate equipment to load/unload batteries from mobile equipment.

Ensure you are trained in using the loading equipment.

Keep tools and other metallic objects away from uncovered batteries.

Use Baking Soda or cleaning agent specified in AHA to neutralize spilled acid.

PROTECTIVE CLOTHING Requirements for Electrolyte HandlingPPE Requirements:Safety Glasses/gogglesRubber GlovesFace ShieldChemical ApronBoots

Safety Eye Wash & Shower RequirementsAn eyewash facility should be capable of flushing both eyes simultaneously for fifteen minutes and a water hose or safety shower that, if portable, is capable of drenching the body. Eyewash and drenching facilities are to be located as close to the point of exposure as possible of battery handling areas (not to exceed 25 ft.) (OSHA)

If Acid comes in contact with eyes, flush for 15 minutes and report to medical immediately. If acid comes in contact with skin or clothing, rinse off for several minutes and try not to spread the electrolyte. Report to medical after rinsing. Note: Eyewash and drenching facilities are not required for non-vented batteries.