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031-295-B0-001, Rev. B (11/2018)
Battery Safety Notes
Lead-acid batteries contain dangerous voltages, currents and corrosive material. Battery installation,
maintenance, service and replacement must be performed only by authorized personnel.
WARNING! GENERAL HAZARD
Chemical Hazards
Any gelled or liquid emissions from a valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) battery contain dilute sulfuric acid, which is
harmful to the skin and eyes. Emissions are electrolytic, and are electrically conductive and corrosive.
To avoid injury:
• Servicing and connection of batteries shall be performed by, or under the direct supervision of, personnel
knowledgeable of batteries and the required safety precautions.
• Always wear eye protection, rubber gloves, and a protective vest when working near batteries. Remove all metallic
objects from hands and neck.
• Batteries produce explosive gases. Keep all open flames and sparks away from batteries.
• Use tools with insulated handles, do not rest any tools on top of batteries.
• Batteries contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm. Battery post terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash hands
after handling (California Proposition 65).
• Wear protective clothing (insulated gloves, eye protection, etc.) whenever installing, maintaining, servicing, or
replacing batteries.
• If any battery emission contacts the skin, wash immediately and thoroughly with water. Follow your company’s
approved chemical exposure procedures.
• Neutralize any spilled battery emission with the special solution contained in an approved spill kit or with a solution
of one pound Bicarbonate of soda to one gallon of water. Report chemical spill using your company’s spill reporting
structure and seek medical attention if necessary.
• All battery compartments must have adequate ventilation to prevent an accumulation of potentially dangerous gas.
• Prior to handling the batteries, touch a grounded metal object to dissipate any static charge that may have
developed on your body.
• Never use uninsulated tools or other conductive materials when installing, maintaining, servicing or replacing
batteries.
• Use special caution when connecting or adjusting battery cabling. An improperly connected battery cable or an
unconnected battery cable can make contact with an unintended surface that can result in arcing, fire, or possible
explosion.
Mechanical Safety
• Keep hands and tools clear of fans. Fans are thermostatically controlled and will turn on automatically.
• Power supplies can reach extreme temperatures under load.
• Use caution around sheet metal components and sharp edges.
Recycling and Disposal Instructions
Spent or damaged batteries are considered environmentally unsafe. Always recycle used batteries or dispose of the
batteries in accordance with all federal, state and local regulations.
