Alpha Technologies Battery Enclosure (BE) - Manual (Page 2)

ALPHA TECHNOLOGIES
DOCUMENT NO.
033-074-C0-001
Revision
2
A
Page
Battery Enclosure (BE) installation
procedure on UPE Enclosure
Battery Safety Notes
Electrical Hazards
Battery systems represent a risk of electrical shock and high short circuit currents. The following
precautions should be observed when maintaining VRLA (Valve-regulated Lead Acid) batteries:
1. Remove all personal metal objects (watches, rings, etc.)
2. Use insulated tools.
3. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
4. Observe circuit polarities.
5. Do not make or break live circuits.
6. Prior to handling batteries on a metal rack, assure the battery is not
inadvertently grounded by observing the ground fault detector indicator. In its
absence, measure the voltage between the battery and the rack. It should be
zero. If not, determine the cause and correct prior to proceeding.
7. Do not lay metal tools and hardware on top of the batteries.
8. As appropriate, use an insulating blanket to cover exposed portions of the battery
system when performing extended maintenance that could result in personal or equipment
contact with the energized conductors.
Certain types of rectifier circuits used in charging VRLA batteries may not include a line isolating
transformer. In these cases, extreme caution should be exercised when maintaining and collecting data
on the battery system.
The VRLA battery is sometimes enclosed in cabinets with very limited access. Again, extreme caution
must be exercised when maintaining and collecting data on the battery system.
Disposal
Lead acid batteries are to be recycled. Batteries contain lead and dilute sulfuric acid. Dispose of in
accordance with Federal, State, and local regulations. Do not dispose of in a landfill, lake, or other
unauthorized location.
Chemical Hazards
Any gelled or liquid emissions from a VRLA battery is electrolyte which contains dilute sulfuric acid which
is harmful to the skin and eyes; is electrically conductive; and is corrosive.
If electrolyte contacts the skin, wash immediately and thoroughly with water. If electrolyte enters the
eyes, wash thoroughly for 10 minutes with clean water or a special neutralizing eye wash solution and
seek immediate medical attention.
Neutralize any spilled electrolyte with the special solutions contained in a “spill kit” or with a solution of 1
lb. bicarbonate of soda to 1 gal. of water.
Fire, Explosion, and Heat hazards
Lead acid batteries can contain an explosive mixture of hydrogen gas which can vent under
overcharging conditions.
Do not smoke or introduce sparks in the vicinity of the battery.
Prior to handling the batteries, touch a grounded metal object, such as the rack, to dissipate any static
charge that may have developed in your body.
Do not charge batteries in a sealed container. The individual batteries should have 0.5 inches of space
between them to allow for convection cooling. If contained, assure the container or cabinet and room
have adequate ventilation to prevent an accumulation of potentially vented gas.