Exide Technologies Section 92.61 - Manual (Page 5)

SECTION 1
1.0 General Information
The Absolyte GP battery is of the valve-regulated lead-acid
(VRLA) design and so can operate with lower maintenance (e.g.
no maintenance water additions) in comparison to conventional
flooded lead-acid batteries. The Absolyte GP VRLA design
is also inherently safer than conventional flooded lead-acid
batteries. Under normal operating conditions and use, the
Absolyte GP battery minimizes hydrogen gas release, and
virtually eliminates acid misting and acid leakage. However, there
is the possibility that under abnormal operating conditions (e.g.
over-charge), or as a result of damage, misuse and/or abuse,
potentially hazardous conditions (hydrogen gassing, acid misting
and leakage) may occur. Thus, GNB recommends that Section
2.0 of these instructions entitled “SAFETY PRECAUTIONS” be
reviewed thoroughly prior to commissioning, and strictly followed
when working with Absolyte GP batteries.
SECTION 2
2.0 Safety Precautions
2.1 Sulfuric Acid Electrolyte Burns
“Warning: Risk of fire, explosion or burns. Do not disas-
semble, heat above 50°C or incinerate.” Batteries contain
dilute (1.310 nominal specific gravity) sulfuric acid electrolyte
which can cause burns and other serious injury. In the event
of contact with electrolyte, flush immediately and thoroughly
with water. Secure medical attention immediately.
When working with batteries, wear rubber apron and rubber
gloves. Wear safety goggles or other eye protection. These
will help prevent injury if contact is made with the acid.
2.2 Explosive Gases
Hydrogen gas formation is an inherent feature of all lead
acid batteries. Absolyte GP VRLA batteries, however,
significantly reduce hydrogen formation. Tests have shown
that 99% or more of generated gases are recombined within
the cell under normal operating conditions. Under abnormal
operating conditions (e.g. charger malfunction), the safety
valve may open and release these gases through the vent.
The gases can explode and cause blindness and other
serious injury.
Keep sparks, flames, and smoking materials away from the
battery area and the explosive gases.
All installation tools should be adequately insulated to
minimize the possibility of shorting across connections.
Never lay tools or other metallic objects on modules as
shorting, explosions and personal injury may result.
2.3 Electrical Shock and Burns
Multi-cell systems attain high voltages, therefore, extreme
caution must be exercised during installation of a battery sys-
tem to prevent serious electrical burns or shock.
Interrupt the AC and DC circuits before working on batteries
or charging equipment.
Assure that personnel understand the risk of working with
batteries, and are prepared and equipped to take the nec-
essary safety precautions. These installation and operating
instructions should be understood and followed. Assure that
you have the necessary equipment for the work, including
insulated tools, rubber gloves, rubber aprons, safety goggles
and face protection.
2.3.1 Static Discharge Precautions for Batteries
When maintaining the batteries, care must be taken to prevent
build-up of static charge. This danger is particularly significant
when the worker is electrically isolated, i.e. working on a rub-
ber mat or an epoxy painted floor or wearing rubber shoes.
Prior to making contact with the cell, discharge static electric-
ity by touching a grounded surface.
DANGER
ELECTRICAL SHOCK
AND BURNS
DANGER SULFURIC
ACID ELECTROLYTE
BURNS
CAUTION!
Before proceeding with the unpack-
ing, handling, installation and opera-
tion of this VRLA storage battery,
the following general information
should be reviewed together with the
recommended safety precautions.
!
CAUTION!
If the foregoing precautions are not fully
understood, clarification should be obtained
from your nearest GNB representative.
Local conditions may introduce situations
not covered by GNB Safety Precautions. If
so, contact the nearest GNB representative
for guidance with your particular safety prob-
lem; also refer to applicable federal, state
and local regulations as well as industry
standards.
!
DANGER
EXPLOSIVE GASES
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