Warnings and Safety Measures For Lead-Acid Batteries

Warnings And Safety Measures For Lead-Acid Batteries

When servicing batteries, Technicians must be aware of, and observe the warnings and safety measures specified.







Explanation of WARNING symbols on batteries

WARNING:
1 - Read and follow all instructions on battery, contained in Repair Information, Electrical Equipment, and in Owner's Manual.
2 - Battery acid (electrolyte) can cause severe burns.
- When working with electrolyte always wear eye protection, rubber gloves and a suitable apron.
- Unprotected contact with electrolyte will severely burn the skin, eyes and mucous membrane.
- Electrolyte gasses will burn breathing passages.
- Ingestion of electrolyte will burn digestive system.
- Never tip a battery on edge. Electrolyte can spill from the ventilation openings.
- FIRST AID: If electrolyte is spilled on eyes or skin, flush at once with large quantities of water.Remove any clothing affected and also flush with water.
- Should electrolyte be spilled on painted surfaces in vehicle or on floor, remove with absorbent material (dispose of absorbent material properly).Neutralize any remaining electrolyte with mixture of baking soda and water.
- Do not touch electrolyte with bare hands. Avoid skin contact.
- After servicing batteries, do not touch mouth, nose or eyes. Thoroughly wash hands prior to breaks and upon completion of battery servicing.
- Keep area were batteries are serviced free from food and drink.
3 - Keep open flames and sparks away and DO NOT smoke near batteries.
- Avoid sparks when working with wiring, connectors, electrical components, as well as tools and equipment used for servicing.
- 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.
- Electrolyte and internal battery materials are harmful to the environment.
8 - Danger of explosion.
- Batteries produce explosive gasses while being charged.
- Keep open flames and sparks away and DO NOT smoke near batteries.
- Spray battery with anti-static spray prior to handling.
- Materials capable of generating and conducting electrostatic charges must not be used in the area of the battery while being charged.
- 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 and, after charging is complete, is left to sit for a period of time in that area.
- Batteries should be transported only in conductive metal containers.
- Avoid short circuits. Always reinstall battery positive ( B+ ) or negative ( - ) terminal covers if removed during servicing.