Guides & Toolkits

2 © 2011, Safe Workplace Promotion Services Ontario, publicly known as Workplace Safety & Prevention Services. 1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | www.wsps.ca Battery Safety Loosen corrosion from battery terminals and carefully brush it off; use a tapered brush when cleaning the battery terminals and cable clamps Clearly mark the positive and negative terminals when the battery cables are removed to ensure that reconnected correctly Clean your hands with soap and water immediately after working with batteries Handling Batteries Lead-acid batteries can be very heavy, therefore, it is very important to ensure proper lifting and carrying techniques to avoid any injuries. Get your body as close as possible to the battery before lifting or lowering it Bend your knees slightly before lifting or lowering the battery Do not lift a heavy battery alone – ask for help from a co-worker or use a lifting device Use the battery carry straps to lift or carry a battery Carry the battery close to your body and at the centre of your body Do not twist; first lift the battery and then move your feet to move the battery Watch for slippery floors and obstructions as you move When carrying the battery, place a clean cloth or rag between the battery and your clothing to absorb any spilled acid Working with Battery acid Wear the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) – specifically splash-proof goggles , an apron, and rubber gloves - a face shield may also be necessary when handling certain batteries Store acid away from hot locations and direct sunlight Slowly pour concentrated acid into water; do not add water into acid Use non-metallic containers and funnels Use extreme care to avoid spilling or splashing the sulphuric acid solution Neutralize any spilled or splashed sulphuric acid solution with baking soda and rinse the area with clean water Use self-levelling filler that automatically fills the battery to a predetermined level - never fill cells above the level indicator Clean up spilled acid safely – first with a solution of sodium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to neutralize it, and then with large volumes of water to rinse the area Charging Batteries Make sure that you have been trained how to charge the battery Wear safety gloves and goggles A safety shower and an eyewash station should be installed in a battery-charging area Charge batteries in a properly ventilated area Ensure there is an ABC-type fire extinguisher nearby Make sure the power is shut off at the charger before connecting or removing the cable clamps Before recharging a battery, check the electrolyte level If the electrolyte is covering the top of the plates, do not add more water If the battery has been outside in cold weather, make sure that the battery is not frozen Connect the negative cable to the frame or motor block instead of the battery terminal Check that the battery ventilation holes are clean and clean to allow the hydrogen gas to escape and prevent the battery from exploding

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