Handling Batteries - Optima D200+ User Manual

Important Safety Instructions
14. CHARGER LOCATION
CAUTION
a. Locate charger as far away from battery as DC cables permit.
b. Never place a charger directly above a battery being charged; gases or fluids from battery
will corrode and damage charger.
c. Do not operate charger in a closed-in area or restricted ventilation in any way.
d. Never allow battery acid to drip on charger when reading electrolyte specific gravity
or filling a battery.
e. Do not set a battery on top of charger.
f. Do not install on or over combustible surfaces.
15. DC CONNECTION PRECAUTIONS
CAUTION
a. Connect and disconnect DC output clips only after and removing AC cord from
electric outlet. Never allow clips to touch each other.
b. Attach charging clamps to battery and chassis as indicated in page 17 through 18 in
this manual
7

Handling Batteries

WHEN HANDLING BATTERIES ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW THE BATTERY MANUFACTURER
WARNINGS, INSTRUCTIONS AND CAUTIONARY MARKINGS.
DANGER OF EXPLODING BATTERIES
DANGER / POISON
SHIELD EYES NO
EXPLOSIVE GASES SPARKS
FLAMES
CAN CAUSE BLINDNESS
SMOKING
OR INJURY
KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN. DO NOT TIP. KEEP VENT CAPS TIGHT AND LEVEL
Batteries contain sulfuric acid and produce explosive mixtures of hydrogen and oxygen gas. Because
self-discharge action generates hydrogen gas even when the battery is not in operation, make sure
batteries are stored and are used in a well-ventilated area. ALWAYS wear ANSI Z87.1 (U.S. standard)
approved safety glasses and face shield or splash proof goggles when working on or near batteries:
- Always wear proper eye, face and hand protection.
- Never try to charge a visibly damaged battery.
- Do not attempt to charge a frozen battery.
- Have plenty of soap, water and baking soda nearby in case battery acid comes
in contact with skin, clothes or eyes.
- Keep all sparks, flames and cigarettes away from the battery.
- Keep removable vents tight and level except when servicing electrolyte.
- Never try to open a battery with non-removable vents.
- Make sure work area is very well ventilated.
- Never lean over battery while boosting, testing or charging.
- Exercise caution when working with metallic tools or conductors to prevent short
circuits and sparks.
- Make sure that the charger leads to the battery are not broken, frayed or loose.
- If the battery becomes hot, or if violent gassing or spewing of electrolyte occurs,
immediately turn off the charger and have your local dealer test your battery.
HANDLING BATTERY ACID
Battery acid, or electrolyte, is a solution of poisonous sulfuric acid and water that can destroy clothing
and burn the skin. Use extreme caution when handling electrolyte and keep an acid neutralizing solution-
such as baking soda or household ammonia mixed with water- readily available. When handling batteries:
- Always wear proper eye, face and hand protection.
- If the electrolyte is splashed into an eye, immediately force the eye open and flood it
with clean, cool water for at least 15 minutes. Get prompt medical attention.
- If electrolyte is taken internally, drink large quantities of water or milk.
DO NOT induce vomiting. Get prompt medical attention.
- Neutralize with baking soda any electrolyte that spills on a vehicle or in the work area.
After neutralizing, rinse contaminated area clean with water.
SULFURIC ACID FLUSH EYES
CAN CAUSE IMMEDIATELY
BLINDNESS OR
WITH WATER
SEVERE BURNS
GET MEDICAL HELP FAST
8