BATTERY TERMINALS
– Do not touch battery terminals while equipment is operating .
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
– Shut OFF all power at the disconnect switch or line breaker BEFORE
inspecting, adjusting, or servicing the equipment . Lock switch OPEN (or remove line fuses) so that the power
cannot be turned ON accidentally . Disconnect power to equipment if it is to be left unattended or out of
service . Disconnect battery from charger . Keep inside parts clean and dry . Dirt and/or moisture can cause
insulation failure . This failure can result in high voltage at the charger output .
BURN AND BODILY INJURY PREVENTION
The battery produces very high currents when short circuited, and will burn the skin severely if in contact
with any metal conductor that is carrying this current . Do not permit rings on fingers to come in contact
with battery terminals or the cell connectors on top of the battery . Battery acid is very corrosive . Always wear
correct eye and body protection when near batteries .
FIRE AND EXPLOSION PREVENTION
When batteries are being recharged, they generate hydrogen gas that is explosive in certain concentrations
in air (the flammability or explosive limits are 4 .1% to 72% hydrogen in air) . The spark-retarding vents help
slow the rate of release of hydrogen, but the escaping hydrogen may form an explosive atmosphere around
the battery if ventilation is poor . The ventilation system should be designed to provide an adequate amount
of fresh air for the number of batteries being charged . This is essential to prevent an explosion . Always keep
sparks, flames, burning cigarettes, and other sources of ignition away from the battery recharging area . Do
not break “live” circuits at the terminals of batteries . Do not lay tools or anything that is metallic on top of any
battery .
ARCING AND BURNING OF CONNECTOR
To prevent arcing and burning of the connector contacts, be sure the charger is OFF before connecting or
disconnecting the battery . The ammeter should NOT indicate current flow .
MEDICAL AND FIRST AID TREATMENT
First aid facilities and a qualified first aid person should be available for each shift for immediate treatment of
electrical shock victims .
EMERGENCY FIRST AID:
Call physician and ambulance immediately and use First Aid
techniques recommended by the American Red Cross .
DANGER: ELECTRICAL SHOCK CAN BE FATAL.
If person is unconscious and electric shock is suspected, do not touch person if he or she is
in contact with charging equipment, battery, charging leads, or other live electrical parts.
Disconnect power at wall switch and then use First Aid.
Dry wood, wooden broom, and other insulating material can be used to move cables, if
necessary, away from person.
In case of acid in the eyes, flush very well with clean water and obtain professional medical
attention immediately .
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