Safety

• A battery contains sulfuric acid, a hazardous substance.
• During battery charging, oxygen and hydrogen are produced. The mixture of these two gases presents a risk of explosion.

I - DANGER “ACID”

Sulfuric acid solution is a very aggressive, toxic product that corrodes most metals.

When handling batteries, it is very important to take the following precautions:

• protect your eyes with goggles,
• wear gloves and acid-resistant clothing.

• In case of acid splashes, flush all affected parts thoroughly with water.
• In case of contact with skin or eyes, seek medical advice.

II - DANGER “EXPLOSION RISK”

When a battery is charging, oxygen and hydrogen are released. Gas formation is at its maximum when the battery is fully charged, and the quantity of gas produced is proportional to the charging current.

Oxygen and hydrogen combine in the free spaces on the surface of the plates to form a detonating mixture. This mixture is highly explosive.

The smallest spark or heat source is enough to cause an explosion. The detonation is so violent that the battery may shatter and acid may be scattered into the surrounding air.

People nearby are put at risk (flying fragments, acid splashes). Acid splashes are dangerous. Acid also attacks clothing.

The warning about the explosion hazard that a mishandled battery can present must therefore be taken very seriously.

To avoid any risk of sparks:

• make sure all electrical consumers are completely switched off,
• when charging a battery in an enclosed area, switch off the charger before connecting or disconnecting the battery,
• do not place metallic objects on the battery, to avoid short-circuiting the terminals,