First Aid; Submersion - Lexus RX400h 2006 Emergency Response Manual

EMERGENCY RESPONSE

First Aid

Emergency responders may not be familiar with a NiMH electrolyte
exposure when rendering aid to a patient. Exposure to the electrolyte
is unlikely except in a catastrophic crash or through improper
handling. Utilise the following guidelines in the event of exposure.
WARNING:
The NIMH battery electrolyte is a caustic alkaline (pH 13.5) that is damaging
to human tissues. Wear proper personal protective equipment to avoid
coming into contact with the electrolyte.
•
Wear 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.
•
Absorption
Perform gross decontamination by removing affected clothing
and properly disposing of the garments.
Rinse the affected areas with water for 20 minutes.
Transport patients to the nearest emergency medical care facility.
•
Inhalation in Non-Fire Situations
No toxic gases are emitted under normal conditions.
• Inhalation in Fire Situations
Toxic gases are given off as by-products of combustion.
All responders in the Hot Zone should wear the proper PPE for
fire fighting including SCBA.
Move a patient from the hazardous environment to a safe area
and administer oxygen.
Transport patients to the nearest emergency medical care facility.
•
Ingestion
Do not induce vomiting.
Allow a patient to drink large quantities of water to dilute
electrolyte (Never give water to an unconscious person).
If vomiting occurs spontaneously, keep the patient's head
lowered and forward to reduce the risk of asphyxiation.
Transport patients to the nearest emergency medical care facility.

Submersion

When fully or partially submersed a RX400h can be safely handled by
following these recommendations:
• Remove the vehicle from the water.
• Drain the water from the vehicle if possible.
• Follow the immobilising and disabling procedures on page 11.
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