MAIN HAZARDS:

Battery acid: The electrolyte in batteries is corrosive and can burn skin or eyes, eat holes in clothing, or even etch a concrete floor.

Flammable gases: Batteries emit hydrogen gas, which is flammable. It ignites easily and can cause a fire or explosion if allowed to accumulate in a small area.

Electrical shock: Sparks fly when jumper cables are attached to a car battery.

Weight: Batteries may be heavy and require proper material handling equipment to lift safely.

USE PROPER PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT:

Goggles: protect from electrolyte splashes

Rubber gloves: provide both acid protection and electrical resistance to prevent shocks

Rubber apron

Face shield

If acid gets into your eye(s) or on your skin, flush and rinse immediately with water for 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if the chemical burn appears to be second degree or greater.

RECHARGING:

Recharge only in a location specifically designed for that purpose, with:

• Adequate ventilation
• “No Smoking” area
• Elimination of open flames, sparks, welding, and electric arcs
• Fire protection equipment, such as fire extinguishers
• Equipment and materials for absorbing spilled electrolyte
• Emergency shower and eyewash stations

Charging batteries safely:

• Be sure the proper charger is being used.
• Check that vent caps are in place to prevent overflow and spilling of electrolyte.
• Shut off the charger when connecting or disconnecting the battery.
• Before and after charging, allow the battery to cool down.
• Never overcharge

For additional information here is a link to: https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/garages/batteries.html