Safe Handling of Batteries
DANGER OF EXPLODING BATTERIES
Batteries contain sulfuric acid and produce explosive mixtures of hydrogen and oxygen. Because self-discharge action generates hydrogen gas even when the battery is not in operation, make sure batteries are stored and worked on in a well-ventilated area. ALWAYS wear safety glasses and a face shield when working on or near batteries. When working with batteries:
- Always wear proper eye, face and hand protection.
- Keep all sparks, flames and cigarettes away from the battery.
- Never try to open a battery with non-removable vents.
- Keep removable vents tight and level except when servicing electrolyte.
- Make sure work area is well ventilated. Avoid breathing electrolyte mist or acid fumes.
- Never lean over battery while boosting, testing or charging.
- Remove jewellery. Exercise caution when working with metallic tools or conductors to prevent short circuits and sparks.
- High voltage applications require special precautions to avoid electrocution hazards that may vary from application to application. Consult the application owners manual, service manuals and follow all warning labels.
SAFE BATTERY INSTALLATION
To assure safe installation and proper operation, follow these installation procedures:
- Before removing old battery, note position of positive (+) terminal and negative (-) terminal. Make the cables for correct connection to new battery.
- Disconnect ground cable first (this is usually the negative cable; however, older vehicles may have a positive ground).
- Clean terminals and cable connections with a wire brush. Broken connections or frayed or cut cables should be replaced.
- Install the new battery in the same position as the old one. Be sure to secure it with the hold-down assembly.
- Make sure the terminals do not touch any metal mounting, engine or body parts.
- Connect cables tightly. Connect ground cable last to avoid sparks and explosion.
SAFE CHARGING
Never attempt to charge a battery without first reviewing the instructions for the charger being used. In addition to the charger manufacturer’s instructions, these general precautions should be followed:
- Always wear proper eye, face and hand protection.
- Always charge batteries in a well-ventilated area.
- Keep vents tight and level.
- Use an automatic voltage-controlled charger set for the correct battery type whenever possible to prevent problems if the battery cannot be monitored during charge.
- When making connections to a battery or disconnecting a battery, follow the instructions supplied with the charger with regard to (1) whether charger should be plugged in or not, (2) whether charger should be switched on or off, (3) in what order and where one should make the connections, and (4) whether charging in a vehicle is permitted and any special precautions to be followed when charging in a vehicle. Many chargers spark when turned off or turned on, whether plugged in or not. Some charger instructions demand that the user (1) add a large cable, not supplied by the charger manufacturer, to the negative terminal, and (2) make the final connection to this cable, well away from the battery.
- Never try to charge a visibly damaged battery.
- Do not attempt to charge a frozen battery. Thaw it fully before attempting to charge.
- Make sure that the charger leads to the battery are not broken, frayed or loose.
- If the battery becomes hot, or if violent gassing or spewing of electrolyte occurs, reduce the charging rate or turn off the charger temporarily.
HANDLING BATTERY ACID
Battery acid, or electrolyte, is a solution of sulfuric acid and water that can destroy clothing and burn the skin. Use extreme caution when handling electrolyte and keep an acid neutralizing solution – such as baking soda or household ammonia mixed with water – readily available. When handling batteries:
- Always wear proper eye, face and hand protection.
- If the electrolyte is splashed into an eye, immediately force the eye open and flood it with clean, cool water for at least 15 minutes. Get prompt medical attention.
- If electrolyte is taken internally, drink large quantities of water or milk. DO NOT induce vomiting. Get prompt medical attention.
- Neutralize with baking soda any electrolyte that spills on a vehicle or in the work area. After neutralizing, rinse contaminated area clean with water.
- Mixing acid can be very dangerous. Under no conditions should a consumer prepare or adjust the concentration of electrolyte using concentrated sulfuric acid.
SAFE BOOSTER CABLE OPERATION
When jump starting, always wear proper eye protection and never lean over the battery. Inspect both batteries before connecting booster cables. Do not jump start a damaged battery. Be sure vent caps are tight and level. Make certain that the vehicles are not touching and both ignition switches are turned to the “OFF” position. Refer to the vehicle’s manual for other specific information.
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