C&D Technologies 41-7525 VRLA Batteries (rack mounted systems) - Manual (Page 4)

VRLA Battery Safety Concerns
Installation and servicing of the 12V VRLA
battery should only be performed and
supervised by personnel knowledgeable of lead
acid batteries and required personal and equipment
safety precautions. Keep unauthorized
personnel away from the batteries and
installation activity.
Electrical Hazards
Battery systems present a risk of electrical
shock and high short circuit currents. The
following precautions should be observed when
installing and maintaining VRLA batteries:
1. Remove all personal metal objects
(watches and rings).
2. Use insulated tools.
3. Wear full 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 measuring the voltage between
the battery and the rack. It should be zero.
If not, determine the cause and correct prior
to proceeding.
Disposal
Lead acid batteries must 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. 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 gallon 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 short circuit terminals.
Do not smoke or introduce sparks in the vicinity of
the battery.
Do not install and charge batteries in a sealed
container.
Mount the individual batteries with 0.5 inches of
space between the batteries 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.
Refer to the current issue of the National Electric
Code.
Caution
Do not attempt to remove the vents (valves) from
the 12V VRLA battery or add water. This presents
a safety hazard and voids the warranty.
Caution
The individual batteries may weigh from 25 to 180
pounds depending on part number. Exercise care
when handling and moving batteries. Assure the
use electrolyte which contains dilute sulfuric acid
which is of appropriate handling equipment.
41-7525/0514/CD 4 www.cdtechno.com