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This section shall apply to batteries used in
electric units. The two types of batteries
commonly used are lead and nickel-iron.
They contain corrosive chemical solutions,
either acid or alkali, and, therefore , present
a chemical hazard. While being charged,
they give off hydrogen and oxygen, which,
in certain concentrates, are explosive.
Battery-charging installations shall be locat-
ed in areas designated for that purpose;
such areas shall be kept free of extraneous
combustible materials. Facilities shall be
provided for the following:
A Flushing spilled electrolyte;
B Fire protection;
C Protecting charging apparatus from
damage by trucks; and
D Adequate ventilation for dispersal of
fumes from gasing batteries.
Where on-board chargers are used, charg-
ing shall be accomplished at locations des-
ignated for that purpose, taking into
account the electrical requirements of the
charger and facilities for fire protection.
Exception: Flushing faclilties shall not be
required if charging is accomplished with-
out removing the battery from the vehicle.
Where handling acid concentrates greater
than 50 percent acid (above 1.400 specific
gravity), an eye-wash fountain shall be pro-
vided.
A conveyor, overhead hoist, or equivalent
material handling equipment shall be pro-
vided for handling batteries.
Chain hoists shall be equipped with load-
cabin containers. Where a hand hoist is
used, uncovered battries shall be covered
with a sheet of plywood or other noncon-
ducting material to prevent the hand chain
from shorting on cell connectors or termi-
nals. A properly insulated spreader bar
shall be used with any overhead hoist.
Reinstalled or new batteries shall meet or
exceed the battery type marked on the unit.
Reinstalled batteries shall be positioned
properly and secured in the unit.
A carboy tilter or siphon shall be provided
where acid in carboys is used. When dilut-
ing concentrated sulfuric acid to make up
electrolyte, the acid ALWAYS shall be add-
ed to the water - not the reverse. Battery
maintenance personnel shall wear protec-
tive clothing such as eye protection, long
sleeves, and gloves.
Exception: Removal and replacement of
batteries shall not require the use of protec-
tive clothing.
Trained and authorized personnel shall
change or charge batteries.
Electrical installations shall be in accor-
dance with NFPA 70,
National Electrical
Code,
and any local ordinances.
Units shall be positoned properly and
brakes shall be applied before attempting to
change or charge batteries.
Where charging batteries, the vent caps
shall be kept in place to avoid electrolyte
spray. Care shall be taken to ensure that
vent caps are functioning. The battery (or
compartment cover(s) shall be open to dis-
sipate heat and gas.
Smoking shall be prohibited in the charging
area.
Precautions shall be taken to prevent open
flames, sparks, or electric arcs in battery-
charging areas.
Tools and other metallic objects shall be
kept away from the tops of uncovered bat-
teries.
Changing and Charging Storage
Batteries
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EN
