GS70

LEAD/ACID BATTERIES AND BATTERY CHARGING

The lead acid battery can cause serious injury if

not handled correctly. The battery is capable of
delivering an electric charge at a very high rate.
Items of jewellery (eg watches, rings etc) must
not be worn at anytime by people working on
batteries because they may short out the
terminals.
Two gases are released when batteries are
charged. Hydrogen is very flammable and
easily
ignited
while
oxygen
supports
combustion. This means adequate ventilation
must be provided whenever charging is
undertaken. Batteries should always be kept
away from ignition sources eg welding,
grinding, smoking etc. The acid used as an
electrolyte is very corrosive and can injure a
person if it comes in contact with them.

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

When handling or using batteries or the
electrolyte (acid) ensure personal protective
equipment is supplied and worn. Consult the
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the
electrolyte (acid) to determine the correct type of
PPE.

The PPE should comprise of:

Overalls
Rubber apron
Rubber gloves
Face shield or goggles
Safety Footwear

STORAGE

Lead acid batteries should be stored in a

cool well ventilated area away from ignition
sources (eg welding, smoking etc.)
A spill tray should be installed under the
battery to contain any spill.
If installed batteries are at risk of metal tools
or other conductive materials touching
terminals, then the terminals should be
insulated.
If the total weight of stored batteries
exceeds five (5) tonnes a licence to store a
dangerous substance is required. This
licence may be obtained from Workplace
Services.
PERSONAL SAFETY

Hazards of working with batteries:

Electrolyte (Acid) being splashed/ spilled

onto the body (including eyes).

An explosion due to ignition of gases

both inside and outside the battery.

Sprains and strains due to incorrect lifting

and carrying techniques

Protect open cuts or lesions with plastic patches.

Never carry batteries by their terminal posts. Use
an appropriate strap or cradle.

This information is provided to offer guidance on a particular aspect of legislation. It is not to be taken as a
statement of law and must not be construed to waive or modify any legal obligation

-2-

FIRST AID
Every battery charging room or large storage
bank should have a safety shower and eye wash.
Concentrated acid can burn flesh in 4-6 seconds
after contact. To apply the correct First Aid
treatment, consult the Material Safety Data Sheet
(MSDS) for the electrolyte. A neutralising agent
may be required.

ELECTROLYTE SPILL
Consult the appropriate MSDS for
containment, clean up and disposal details.

spill

If electrolyte is spilt:

water shower fully clothed if electrolyte

comes into contact with any part of the
body or such contact with is suspected
Throw diatomaceous earth or sand (but
NOT sawdust) over the contaminated area.
Remove the earth or sand once it has
soaked up the acid/electrolyte.
Wash down the area with a solution of
common washing soda.
Dispose of any contaminated material
safely
AVOIDING EXPLOSIONS

Charge batteries in a well-ventilated area.

Use insulated tools to avoid shorting
terminals.
Do not wear rings/watches etc.
Use correct battery terminals
Do not use alligator clips.

For further information consult :

First Aid Kits should be made available at the
site.
INFORMATION / TRAINING
The employer is responsible for providing
appropriate
information
and
training
to
employees.
MSDSs are available from the
supplier/manufacturer of the substance.

MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)

Manufacturers
Department for Administrative and
Information Services Workplace
Services
(Consult
your
local
White
Pages
telephone book under Administrative).

WORKING WITH ELECTROLYTE (ACID)

When working with acid electrolyte :

Issue Date: February 2000

Ensure neutralising solutions are available

for immediate use
Add concentrated acid slowly and carefully
to the water (adding water to acid causes
violent heat generation)
Stir the mixture with a glass or plastic
(teflon) rod
Ensure stored electrolyte is decanted into
an appropriate container (eg glass or
polyethylene or polypropylene container or
a polylined drum)
Do not allow metal (except lead) to come
in contact with acid or electrolyte
Allow the electrolyte to cool before
checking its specific gravity
Allow the electrolyte to cool before filling
batteries.
Safeguard GS70 - Lead/Acid Batteries and Battery Charging - continued
This information is provided to offer guidance on a particular aspect of legislation. It is not to be taken as a
statement of law and must not be construed to waive or modify any legal obligation