Battery Safety Guide

Basic Safety Rules

• Always read and follow manufacturer instructions
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Work in well-ventilated areas
• Keep batteries away from heat sources and flames
• Never short-circuit battery terminals
• Inspect batteries regularly for damage

Proper Handling Techniques

• Lift batteries using proper lifting techniques
• Use battery carriers or lifting equipment for heavy batteries
• Avoid dropping or subjecting batteries to impact
• Handle by the case, not the terminals
• Wear safety glasses and gloves when appropriate

Connection Safety

• Disconnect power before making connections
• Connect positive terminal first, negative last
• Use insulated tools when possible
• Ensure connections are clean and tight
• Apply terminal protectant to prevent corrosion

Safe Storage Conditions

• Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas
• Maintain temperature between 15-25°C (59-77°F)
• Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
• Ensure adequate spacing between batteries
• Store on non-conductive surfaces
• Keep different battery types separated

Storage Area Requirements

• Fire detection and suppression systems
• Adequate ventilation to prevent gas accumulation
• Emergency eyewash and shower stations
• Spill containment materials
• Clear labeling and inventory management

Fire Emergency

1. Evacuate the area immediately
2. Call emergency services (fire department)
3. Use appropriate fire extinguisher if safe to do so
4. Do not use water on lithium battery fires
5. Allow area to ventilate before re-entry

Chemical Spill

1. Isolate the spill area
2. Wear appropriate PPE
3. Neutralize acid spills with baking soda
4. Absorb liquids with appropriate materials
5. Dispose of contaminated materials properly

Personal Exposure

• Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing, flush with water for 15 minutes
• Eye Contact: Flush immediately with water for 15 minutes, seek medical attention
• Inhalation: Move to fresh air, seek medical attention if symptoms persist
• Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting, seek immediate medical attention

Proper Disposal Methods

• Never dispose of batteries in regular trash
• Use authorized battery recycling centers
• Follow local and federal disposal regulations
• Tape terminals before disposal to prevent short circuits
• Keep different battery types separated

Preparation for Disposal

1. Discharge battery to safe level (if applicable)
2. Remove from equipment
3. Inspect for damage or leakage
4. Place in appropriate container
5. Label container with battery type and hazards

Recycling Benefits

• Recovers valuable materials (lithium, cobalt, lead)
• Prevents environmental contamination
• Reduces need for mining new materials
• Complies with environmental regulations

Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

• Monitor for swelling, overheating, or unusual odors
• Use proper chargers with safety certifications
• Avoid overcharging or deep discharge
• Store at moderate temperatures
• Handle damaged batteries as hazardous waste

Lead-Acid Battery Safety

• Wear eye protection and gloves
• Work in well-ventilated areas (hydrogen gas risk)
• Keep ignition sources away
• Have acid neutralizing materials available
• Check electrolyte levels regularly

Nickel-Based Battery Safety

• Avoid overheating during charging
• Handle cadmium-containing batteries as toxic waste
• Ensure proper ventilation
• Monitor for leakage or corrosion