Starting and Charging: Service Precautions
Warnings and Safety Precautions
When servicing batteries, Technicians must be aware of, and observe the warnings and safety measures specified in this repair information.
Explanation of WARNING symbols on batteries
CAUTION!
1 - Read and follow all instructions on battery, contained in Repair Information, Electrical Equipment, and in Owner's Manual!
2 - Battery acid can cause severe burns!
• When working with electrolyte always wear eye protection, rubber gloves and a suitable apron. If electrolyte is spilled on eyes, skin, clothing (or painted surfaces), flush at once with large quantities of water.
• Never tip a battery on edge. Electrolyte can spill from the ventilation openings.
3 - Keep open flames and sparks away and DO NOT smoke near batteries!.
• Avoid sparks when working with cables and electrical units.
• Always reinstall battery positive (B+) or negative ( - ) terminal covers if removed during servicing
4 - Always wear eye protection when working with electrolyte!
• If electrolyte gets into eyes, flush with large quantities of water. Seek medical attention immediately!
5 - Keep children away from batteries!
6 - Dispose of batteries properly!
• Waste batteries must only be disposed of in appropriate waste disposal sites. Refer to local regulations pertaining to battery disposal.
7 - Never dispose of batteries in household waste! Batteries contain lead (Pb), which is toxic.
8 - Danger of explosion!
• Batteries produce explosive gasses while being charged.
• Keep open flames and sparks away and DO NOT smoke near batteries.
• The battery charger MUST be turned off when connecting or disconnecting the cables at the battery.
• Battery cell caps must NOT be removed while charging.
• Ensure that battery is charged in a well ventilated area.
• Avoid short circuits. Always reinstall battery positive (B+) or negative ( - ) terminal covers if removed during servicing.
CAUTION!
Smoking, naked flames, fires and sparks:
• Smoking, naked flames and fires are prohibited whilst working; flying sparks must be avoided.
• Avoid short circuits and sparks when handling cables and electrical equipment.
CAUTION!
Electrolyte:
• Can cause severe injury to the eyes, skin and mucous membranes.
• Inhalation can damage the respiratory system.
• Swallowing is harmful to the digestive system.
• First aid: Rinse eyes and immediately consult first aid station or inform doctor.
• Never tilt battery. Acid can leak out of the gas vents.
• Soak up spilled electrolyte with binding agent and neutralize any residual electrolyte.
• Never allow electrolyte to come into contact with hands.
• Avoid contact with skin.
• Never touch mouth, nose or eyes with soiled hands.
• Immediately change any clothing affected by electrolyte and place in water if necessary.
• Do not eat, drink or store foodstuffs at workplace.
• Wash thoroughly before breaks and on completion of work.
CAUTION!
Eye protection and protective clothing:
• Wear safety goggles and an acid-resistant apron or alternatively electrolyte-proof overalls.
• Wear electrolyte-proof gloves.
CAUTION!
Danger of explosion:
• Old batteries (in use for 6 months or more) must be treated with an anti-static spray (currently "Neostatic Antistatikum HB 155" or equivalent) prior to handling.
• Sealing plugs must be closed when charging.
• Charging of batteries removed from the vehicle is only permitted in vented cubicles with extraction system.
• After charging, battery must be left in charging area with extraction system for an appropriate length of time.
• Batteries must always be transported in conductive metal containers.
• Electrostatically chargeable materials are not to be used for securing purposes.