Safety precautions for battery maintenance

Battery maintenance is deceptively simple, but can be dangerous if the proper precautions aren’t taken.

Feb. 5, 2019

Although battery maintenance is deceptively simple, it can be dangerous if the proper precautions aren’t taken. Consider these precautions to ensure technician safety:

Have someone within voice range in case there is an issue.
Have a supply of clean soap and water in case battery acid contacts skin, clothing or eyes. If battery acid contacts skin or clothing, wash immediate with soap and water. If acid enters the eye, flood the eye with running cold water for at least 10 minutes and seek medical attention immediately.
Wear eye protection, gloves and clothing protection. Avoid touching eyes while working near the battery.
Never smoke or allow a spark or flame near the battery or engine.
Be cautious of dropping metal tools onto the battery. It could spark or short-circuit the battery or another electrical part, and could potentially cause an explosion.
Remove personal metal items including rings, bracelets, necklaces and watches when working with a battery. A lead-acid battery can produce a short-circuit current high enough to weld a ring to metal, causing a severe burn.
Be careful to observe battery terminal polarity when attaching cabling.

About the Author

Stefanie Von Rueden

Assistant Editor - Vehicle Repair Group

Stefanie Von Rueden is assistant editor for the Vehicle Repair Group.

Von Rueden’s background includes professional writing and publishing. Previously, she worked in the Continuing Education department at UW-Whitewater. She has covered the vehicle maintenance and automotive aftermarket since 2016.