Electrical Hazards
Battery systems present a risk of electrical shock
and high short circuit currents. The following
precautions should be observed when maintaining
VRLA batteries:
1. Remove all personal metal objects
(watches, rings, etc.).
2. Use insulated tools.
3. Wear full eye protection and rubber
gloves.
4. Observe circuit polarities.
5. Do not make or break live circuits.
6. Prior to handling batteries on a metal
rack, assure the battery is not
inadvertently grounded by observing the
ground fault detector indicator. In its
absence, measure the voltage between
the battery and the rack. It should be zero.
If not, determine the cause and correct
prior to proceeding.
7. Do not lay metal tools and hardware on
top of the batteries.
8. As appropriate, use an insulating
blanket to cover exposed portions of the
battery system when performing extended
maintenance that could result in personal
or equipment contact with the energized
conductors.
Certain types of rectifier circuits used in charging
the VRLA battery may not include a line isolating
transformer. In these cases extreme caution
should be exercised when maintaining and
collecting data on the battery system.
The VRLA battery is sometimes enclosed in
cabinets with very limited access. Again, extreme
caution must be exercised when maintaining and
collecting data on the battery system.
Disposal
Lead acid batteries are to be recycled. Batteries
contain lead and dilute sulfuric acid. Dispose of
in accordance with Federal, State and local
regulations. Do not dispose of in a landfill, lake or
other unauthorized location.
Chemical Hazards
Any liquid leaking from a VRLA battery is electrolyte
which contains dilute sulfuric acid which is harmful
to the skin and eyes; is electrically conductive;
and is corrosive.
If electrolyte contacts the skin, wash immediately
and thoroughly with water. If electrolyte enters the
eyes, wash thoroughly for 10 minutes with clean
water or a special neutralizing eye wash solution
and seek immediate medical attention.
Neutralize any spilled electrolyte with the special
solutions contained in a spill kit or with a solution
of 1 lb. bicarbonate of soda to 1 gallon of water.
Fire, Explosion and Heat Hazards
Lead acid batteries can contain an explosive
mixture of hydrogen gas which can vent under
overcharging conditions.
Do not smoke or introduce sparks in the vicinity
of the battery.
Prior to handling the batteries, touch a grounded
metal object, such as the rack, to dissipate any
static charge that may have developed on
your body.
Do not charge batteries in a sealed container.
The individual batteries should have 0.5 inches
of space between the batteries to allow for
convection cooling. If contained, assure the
container or cabinet and room have adequate
ventilation to prevent an accumulation of
potentially vented gas.
41-7546/0213/CD 4 www.cdtechno.com
