First Aid

First Aid
Emergency responders may not be familiar with a NiMH electrolyte exposure when rendering aid to a patient. Exposure to the electrolyte is unlikely except in a catastrophic crash or through improper handling. Utilize the following guidelines in the event of exposure.

WARNING:
The NiMH battery electrolyte is a caustic alkaline (pH 13.5) that is damaging to human tissues. To avoid injury by coming in contact with the electrolyte, wear proper personal protective equipment.

- Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Splash shield or safety goggles. Fold down helmet shields are not acceptable for acid or electrolyte spills.
Rubber, latex or nitrile gloves.
Apron suitable for alkaline.
Rubber boots.

- Absorption
Perform gross decontamination by removing affected clothing and properly disposing of the garments.
Rinse the affected areas with water for 20 minutes. Transport patients to the nearest emergency medical care facility.

- Inhalation in Non-Fire Situations
No toxic gases are emitted under normal conditions.

- Inhalation in Fire Situations
Toxic gases are given off as by-products of combustion. All responders in the Hot Zone should wear the proper PPE for fire fighting including SCBA.
Move a patient from the hazardous environment to a safe area and administer oxygen.
Transport patients to the nearest emergency medical care facility.

- Ingestion
Do not induce vomiting.
Allow a patient to drink large quantities of water to dilute electrolyte (Never give water to an unconscious person).
If vomiting occurs spontaneously, keep the patient's head lowered and forward to reduce the risk of asphyxiation.
- Transport patients to the nearest emergency medical care facility.