Overheated batteries, Disposal of damaged and/or leaking batteries – Rockwell Automation 1747-BA SLC 500 Lithium Battery User Manual
Page 8

8 Guidelines for Handling Lithium Batteries
Publication 1747-IN515A-EN-P - May 2004
Disposal of Damaged and/or Leaking Batteries
You must wear protective clothing (protective eyewear, clothes, safety shield, and
self-contained breathing apparatus).
Do not:
•
pick up ruptured batteries with bare hands. Lithium can cause skin burns.
Use tongs, scoops, or a shovel to place the batteries in a mineral-oil-filled
container.
•
breathe fumes. Ventilate the area to disperse the fumes before entering the
room.
If toxic or corrosive material comes in contact with your eyes or skin, flush with
water and consult a physician. Dispose of clothing that is contaminated.
Use the following procedure to dispose of damaged and/or leaking batteries:
1. Put the damaged batteries in two polyethylene bags and add about 1 ounce
of calcium carbonate (CaCO
3
) to the inner bag. Slowly-leaking batteries have
a deposit of white salt crystals on the outside of the battery casing.
2. Heat seal both bags.
3. Take the container outside and ventilate the area where you discovered the
damaged batteries.
4. Contact your local EPA office for information about battery disposal
companies.
Overheated Batteries
An overheated battery may explode or rupture violently. If you must try to save the
battery, wear the protective clothing described above. If a lithium battery overheats:
•
take shelter
•
attempt to remove any external source of heat
•
remove power from any equipment involved
•
remove the battery to a well-ventilated fire-protected area after it cools
ATTENTION
If the batteries are badly damaged and/or leaking, evacuate all
personnel from the immediate area.