VENTED BATTERIES
The electrolyte is a diluted sulfuric acid that is harmful to the skin and eyes.
It is electrically conductive and corrosive. The following procedures are to be
observed:
• Wear full eye protection and protective clothing.
• If electrolyte contacts the skin, wash it off immediately with water.
• If electrolyte contacts the eyes, flush thoroughly and immediately with water
and seek medical attention.
• Spilled electrolyte is to be washed down with an acid-neutralizing agent. A
common practice is to use a solution of one pound (500 grams) bicarbonate
of soda to one gallon (4 liters) of water. The bicarbonate of soda solution is to
be added until the evidence of reaction (foaming) has ceased. The resulting
liquid is to be flushed with water and the area dried.
Lead acid batteries present a risk of fire because they generate hydrogen gas.
The following procedures are to be followed:
• DO NOT SMOKE when near batteries.
• DO NOT cause flame or spark in battery area.
• Discharge static electricity from your body before touching batteries by first
touching a grounded metal surface.
Servicing of batteries is to be performed or supervised by personnel
knowledgeable of batteries and the required precautions. Keep unauthorized
personnel away from batteries.
For recommended batteries, see the “Specifications” section in the Owner’s
Manual. All batteries must be at 100 percent state of charge before they are
installed on the generator.
When using maintenance-free batteries, it is not necessary to check the specific
gravity or electrolyte level. Have these procedures performed at the intervals
specified in the “Maintenance” section in the Owner’s Manual. A negative
ground system is used. Battery connections are shown on the wiring diagrams.
Make sure all batteries are correctly connected and terminals are tight. Observe
battery polarity when connecting batteries to the generator set.
NOTE:
Damage will result if the battery connections are made in reverse.
