Safety Tip of the Week – Battery Charging Safety

Because batteries contain chemicals, chemical reaction by-products, and an electrical current, they can pose a hazard to workers if not handled properly. Workers that operate, maintain, and recharge batteries should use caution.

Battery Charging Dos:

• Wear gloves and suitable eye protection— preferably goggles or a visor;
• Wear a plastic apron and suitable boots when handling battery chemicals such as sulphuric acid or potassium hydroxide;
• Empty your pockets of any metal objects that could fall onto the battery or bridge across its terminals;
• Keep sources of ignition – such as flames, sparks, electrical equipment, hot objects, and mobile phones – well away from batteries that are being charged, have recently been charged, or are being moved;
• Use suitable single-ended tools with insulated handles;
• Fit temporary plastic covers over the battery terminals;
• Charge batteries in a dedicated, well-ventilated area;
• Share the load with a workmate when lifting batteries – they can be very heavy;
• Use insulated lifting equipment and check there are no tools, cables, or other clutter you could trip on; and
• Wash your hands thoroughly after working with batteries, especially before eating, smoking or going to the toilet.

DON’T BE HASTY WHEN IT COMES TO SAFETY!!