These precautions can help technicians stay safe when handling, working on and charging vehicle batteries. The information has been compiled from battery and automotive service equipment manufacturers.
- Before handling a battery, remove any jewelry and personal metal items such as rings, bracelets, necklaces and watches when working with a lead-acid battery. Such a battery can produce a short circuit current high enough to weld a ring or the like to metal, causing a severe burn.
- Always wear approved safety glasses or goggles and/or a face shield, as well as the proper clothing to protect the hands and body.
- Avoid touching eyes while working on a battery.
- Have plenty of fresh water and soap nearby in case battery acid contacts skin, clothing, or eyes. If battery acid contacts skin or clothing, wash immediately with soap and water. If acid enters eyes, immediately flood eyes with running cold water for at least 10 minutes and get medical attention immediately.
- Have someone within range to hear a call for help or close enough to come to provide aid when a technician is working with a lead-acid battery.
- Make sure the work area is well-ventilated.
- Never lean over a battery when working on it.
- Never smoke or allow flames, sparks and other ignition sources in the vicinity of a battery, as they could cause the battery to catch fire or even explode.
- Be extra cautious to reduce the risk of dropping metallic tools or conductors onto a battery as this could cause a spark or short circuit the battery or other electrical part, possibly causing an explosion.
- Never attempt to charge a battery without first consulting the vehicle and battery owner’s manuals for instructions and safety precautions.
- Never charge a frozen or visibly damaged battery.
- Make sure that the charger leads to the battery are not broken, frayed or loose.
- Never allow the charger clamps to touch together or contact the same piece of metal to prevent arcing when the charger is plugged in.
- Always turn the charger “Off” before removing charger leads from the battery to avoid dangerous sparks.
