00 Index and foreword CEN00002-05
15
Working near batteries
Battery hazard prevention
• Battery electrolyte contains sulfuric acid, which
can quickly burn the skin and eat holes in
clothing. If you spill acid on yourself, immediately
flush the area with water.
• Battery acid can cause blindness if splashed into
your eyes. If acid gets into your eyes, flush them
immediately with large quantities of water and
see a doctor at once.
• If you accidentally drink acid, drink a large
quantity of water, milk, beaten eggs or vegetable
oil. Call a doctor or poison prevention center
immediately.
• Always wear safety glasses or goggles when
working with batteries.
• Batteries generate hydrogen gas. Hydrogen gas
is very explosive and can easily be ignited with a
small spark or flame.
• Before working with batteries, stop the engine
and turn the key switch to the OFF position.
• Avoid short-circuiting the battery terminals
through accidental contact with metallic objects,
such as tools, across the terminals.
• When removing or installing batteries, check
which is the positive (+) terminal and the negative
(-) terminal.
• Tighten battery caps securely.
• Tighten the battery terminals securely. Loose
terminals can generate sparks and lead to an
explosion.
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