First Aid - Lexus LS 600hL 2007 Emergency Response Manual

EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Fire
(Continued)
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 of water.

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. To avoid injury by coming in contact with the electrolyte,
wear proper personal protective equipment.
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.
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