Spills; First Aid - Toyota Prius Manual

E mergency Response (2012 Model - Continued)

Spills

The Prius Plug-in hybrid contains the same common automotive fluids used in
other non-hybrid Toyota vehicles, with the exception of the Li-ion electrolyte
used in the HV battery assembly. The electrolyte used in the Li-ion battery
cells is a flammable organic electrolyte. The electrolyte is absorbed into the
battery cell separators, even if the battery cells are crushed or cracked, it is
unlikely that liquid electrolyte will leak. Any liquid electrolyte that leaks
from a Li-ion battery cell quickly evaporates.
WARNING:
•
The Li-ion battery contains organic electrolyte. Only a small
amount may leak from the batteries which may irritate the eyes,
nose, throat, and skin.
•
Contact with the vapor produced by the electrolyte may irritate the
nose and throat.
•
To avoid injury by coming in contact with the electrolyte or vapor,
wear personal protective equipment for organic electrolyte
including SCBA or protective mask for organic gases.
In an emergency, the Li-ion battery (part number G9280-47130)
manufacturer's Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is available by
contacting:
United States: CHEMTREC at (800) 424-9300
Canada: CANUTEC at *666 or (613) 996-6666 (collect)
•
Handle Li-ion electrolyte spills using the following Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE):
Splash shield or safety goggles. Fold down helmet shields are not
acceptable for electrolyte spills.
Rubber gloves or gloves suitable for organic solvents.
Apron suitable for organic solvents.
Rubber boots or boots suitable for organic solvents.
Protective mask for organic gases or SCBA.
•
Absorbent
Suitable absorbent for an organic solvent.

First Aid

Emergency responders may not be familiar with Li-ion electrolyte exposure
when rendering aid to a patient. Exposure to the electrolyte is unlikely except
in a catastrophic crash or through improper handling. Utilize the following
guidelines in the event of exposure.
•
Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Splash shield or safety goggles. Fold down helmet shields are not
acceptable for electrolyte spills.
Rubber gloves or gloves suitable for organic solvents.
Apron suitable for organic solvents.
Rubber boots or boots suitable for organic solvents.
Protective mask for organic gases or SCBA
•
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
Contact with the vapor produced by the electrolyte may irritate the
nose and throat. In severe cases such as confined spaces, move
exposed patients to a well ventilated area.
Transport patients to the nearest emergency medical care facility.
•
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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