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Hazards
caused by
acids, gases
and vapours
General
information
on handling
batteries
Batteries contain acids which are damaging to the eyes and skin.
Furthermore, gases and vapours which can cause health risks
and which are highly explosive under some circumstances are
produced during battery charging.
– only use chargers and well-ventilated rooms in order to
prevent the accumulation of explosive gases. Battery
rooms are not considered to be explosion-hazardous
if a hydrogen concentration of below 4% can be guaranteed
by natural or technical ventilation systems.
– Keep a spacing of 0.5 m (19.69 inches) between battery an
charger while the batteries charging. Keep possible ignition
sources and fire and naked flames away from the battery.
– Never disconnect the connection to the battery (e.g. charging
terminals) during the charging process.
– Never inhale any gases or vapours produced.
– Ensure sufficient provision of fresh air.
– Never place any tools or electrically-conductive metals
on the battery to avoid short-circuits.
– Battery acids may never contact the eyes, the skin or clothing.
Wear protective goggles and suitable protective clothing.
Always wash acid splashes immediately and thoroughly with
clean water, consult a doctor if necessary.
– Protect batteries against dirt and mechanical loading.
– Store charged batteries in cool rooms. The lowest self-
discharge rates occur at approximately +2°C (35,6°F) .
– Ensure that the battery is filled up to the maximum marking
with acid (electrolyte)by doing a weekly visual check.
– Do not start or immediately stop operation of the device and
have the battery checked by authorised specialists in cases
of: – uneven acid levels or high water consumption in
individual cells, which may be caused by a possible
defect or unauthorised warming of the battery
to above 55°C (131°F).
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