Document No. 5-0324 Rev G
SAFETY SUMMARY
A. WARNING: LOW CAPACITY HAZARD. Aircraft batteries are certified to have
a certain minimum capacity for emergency operations in the event of a
electrical generator system failure. Never use a battery that has less than 80%
of rated capacity and never “jump start” an aircraft that has a “dead” or
discharged battery.
B. WARNING: ELECTRIC BURN HAZARD. Lead-acid batteries are capable of
delivering high currents if the terminals are shorted. The resulting heat can cause
severe burns and is a potential fire hazard. Take the following precautions:
• Do not place tools or metal objects across battery terminals.
• Do not wear conductive rings, belt buckles, watches or other jewelry when
servicing batteries.
• Wear insulated gloves and use insulated tools when servicing batteries.
• Install battery terminal protectors whenever the battery is not connected in the
aircraft or to the test equipment.
C. WARNING: DANGER OF EXPLODING BATTERIES. Lead-acid batteries can
produce explosive mixtures of hydrogen and oxygen while on charge or
discharge, which can explode if ignited. Take the following precautions:
• Never install batteries in an airtight or sealed enclosure and make sure
installation is adequately ventilated.
• Do not smoke, use an open flame, or cause sparking near a battery.
• Wear proper eye and face protection when servicing batteries.
• Make sure work area is well ventilated.
• Do not constant current charge a battery when installed in an aircraft.
• Connect cables securely to the battery terminals to avoid arcing.
D. WARNING: DANGER OF CHEMICAL BURNS. Lead-acid batteries contain
sulfuric acid which can cause severe burns to body tissue. Take the following
precautions:
• Never remove or damage vent valves.
• Avoid contact of the electrolyte with skin, eyes or clothing.
• Do not touch eyes after touching battery.
• In the event of acid in the eyes, flush thoroughly with clean cool water for
several minutes and get professional medical attention immediately.
• Refer to battery SDS for additional information.
E. CAUTION: DANGER OF EQUIPMENT DAMAGE. Batteries and mating
contacts may overheat or sustain arc damage due to improper connections.
Take the following precautions:
• Ensure quick disconnect plugs are fully mated and screw terminals are
properly torqued. Be aware that loose connections can cause severe
overheating of the battery terminals and mating contacts/cables which may
damage surrounding equipment and airframe.
• Ensure the aircraft battery switch or the charger/analyzer is in the AOFF@
position before connecting or disconnecting the battery. This practice will
prevent damage due to arcing between the terminals and mating contacts.