– 21 –
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Spills
The GS450h contains the same common automotive fluids used in
other non-hybrid Lexus vehicles, with the exception of NiMH
electrolyte used in the HV battery pack. The NiMH battery electrolyte is
a caustic alkaline (pH 13.5) that is damaging to human tissues.
The electrolyte, however, is absorbed in the cell plates and will not
normally spill or leak out even if a battery module is cracked.
A catastrophic crash that would breach both the metal battery pack
case and the plastic battery module would be a rare occurrence.
Similar to the use of baking soda to neutralise a lead-acid battery
electrolyte spill, a dilute boric acid solution or vinegar can be used to
neutralise a NiMH battery electrolyte spill.
NOTE:
Electrolyte leakage from the HV battery pack is unlikely due to its
construction and the amount of available electrolyte contained within
the NiMH modules. Any spillage would not warrant a declaration as a
hazardous material incident. Responders should follow the
recommendations as outlined in this emergency response guide.
In an emergency, check the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
on page 26.
•
Handle NiMH electrolyte spills using the following
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Splash shield or safety goggles. Fold down helmet shields are
not acceptable for acid or electrolyte spills.
Rubber, latex or nitrile gloves.
Apron suitable for alkaline.
Rubber boots.
•
Neutralise NiMH Electrolyte
Use a boric acid solution or vinegar.
Boric acid solution - 800 grams boric acid to 20 litres water.
WARNING:
• The high voltage system may remain powered for up to 10 minutes after
the vehicle is shut off or disabled. To prevent serious injury or death from
severe burns or electric shock, avoid touching, cutting, or opening any
orange high voltage power cable or high voltage component.
• The SRS may remain powered for up to 90 seconds after the vehicle is
shut off or disabled. To prevent serious injury or death from unintentional
SRS deployment, avoid breaching the SRS components.
• If none of the disabling procedures can be performed, proceed with
caution as there is no assurance that the high voltage electrical system,
SRS, or fuel pump are disabled.
7940 - Lexus A4 ERG Book 3/5/06 3:23 PM Page 21
