Page 60 - QH Battery Application Guide

60
Health & Safety
The handling and proper use of lead-acid batteries is not hazardous provided appropriate facilities are available and operatives, having been instructed, are adequately supervised and reasonable care taken.
The Purpose Of This Guide Is:
1. To indicate the potential hazards that may arise. 2. To outline the precautions to be taken to minimise
such hazards.
3. To indicate the action to be taken in the event of an
accident or emergency situation.
1) SULPHURIC ACID (ELECTROLYTE)
Batteries contain sulphuric acid, which may leak and may be given off as gasses and/or a ne mist during charging.
1.1 Nature of the Hazard
Battery acid is a poisonous and corrosive liquid which will cause burns and irritation to the skin and eyes and could burn clothing.
1.2 Precautions
• Always handle batteries with care and keep upright.
• Do not over ll batteries.
• Always charge in a well-ventilated area.
• Always use eye protection and protective clothing where
there is any risk from splashes.
• Always keep away from children.
1.3 Accident or Emergency Action and Treatment
Skin Contact:
Immediately drench the affected area with clean water and remove any contaminated clothing. If any soreness or irritation persists seek medical advice.
Eye Contact:
Speed of action is vital. Immediately wash out the eyes with clean water for at least 10 minutes and seek prompt medical attention.
Ingestion:
Do NOT induce vomiting, but make the patient drink as much water or milk as possible and seek immediate medical attention.
1.4 Spillages
For small spillages, swill away thoroughly with plenty of water.
1.5 Disposal
Suitable acid resistant, labelled containers should be used. See also Section 6.
2) ELECTRICAL ENERGY
Electrical energy can be supplied from batteries and charging equipment.
2.1 Nature of the Hazard
Burns may occur from the heating effect on tools and conductive objects in contact with live battery terminals or conductors. In addition, sparks and molten metal may be ejected and combustible materials ignited. It is possible to receive a severe electric shock from charging equipment and from a number of batteries connected in series.
2.2 Precautions
Before using conductive tools on a battery, remove metallic personal adornments from the hands and wrists, i.e. watches and rings. Before working on a vehicle electrical system, disconnect the battery where there is any risk of accidental short circuits. Always disconnect the earth terminal from a battery rst and connect last. Do not place tools or conductive objects on top of batteries.
Before using a battery charger, consult manufacturer’s literature. Remember to switch the charger off before connecting or disconnecting a battery.
See also Section 3.
2.3 Accident or Emergency Action & Treatment
Burns:
Cool the area with cold water, apply a sterile dressing and seek medical attention.
Electric Shock:
Immediate action is essential in cases of severe electric shock as the nerves controlling breathing and heart action may be affected. Do not delay treatment by calling for a doctor: this should be done quickly if help is available or when the casualty recovers:
1. Make sure it is safe to approach. If the casualty is not clear
of a live conductor, break the contact. Switch off the current, remove the plug, or wrench the cable free. If this is not possible, stand on dry insulating material (wood, rubber, brick, thickly folded newspaper or a book) and try to push
or pull the casualty clear of contact using similar insulating material as a lever. Do not touch him/her with bare hands.
2. If necessary give cardio pulmonary resuscitation.
3) EMISSION OF GASES
Hydrogen and oxygen are emitted during charging and can be emitted at other times, particularly if a battery is moved or shaken. Therefore, always consider that gas is present in the immediate vicinity or at the top of the battery.
3.1 Nature of the Hazard
An explosive atmosphere is created if the concentration of hydrogen in air exceeds 4%.
3.2 Precautions
• Always use eye protection where there may be any foreseeable risk.
• Charge in a well ventilated area.
HEALTH & SAFETY