Battery Safety

Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) batteries contain sulfuric acid. Sulfuric acid can cause severe irritation and burns. Contact with sulfuric acid should be avoided.

Do not handle batteries that appear to be damaged or leaking. If sulfuric acid comes in contact with the skin or eyes, flush immediately and thoroughly with water.Sulfuric acid can be neutralized with baking soda.

Batteries generate hydrogen which is extremely explosive. VRLA batteries emit small amounts of hydrogen under normal operation, but can evolve significant amounts of hydrogen if any of the cells are charged at an excessive voltage (Operator error, charger malfunction, shorted cells in

string, etc.). Never seal batteries in a room or enclosure where hydrogen can accumulate.

Never smoke around batteries. Open flames and sparks should always be avoided to minimize risk of igniting the hydrogen and causing an explosion.

Avoid incidental sparks by never wearing jewelry, and only using insulated tools when installing and handling batteries.

Never drop or lay tools across battery terminals.

Make sure all connections are properly cleaned and torqued. Make sure to minimize voltage drops during connections to avoid sparks.

Electrically isolate the batteries for service and installation.

Batteries are extremely heavy. Always use proper lifting techniques and equipment as specified by OSHA.

Only personnel that have been properly trained on DC power safety should have access to the batteries for installation and maintenance.