Lucent Technologies Round Cell Batteries
4 - 6 Safety Issue 3 December 1999
Battery Gases Lead-acid batteries produce hydrogen gas even under normal charging
and open circuit conditions. Boost charging or abnormal conditions,
such as high temperature, abnormal charging, shorted cells, etc., can
produce greater amounts of gas. If not permitted to escape, this gas can
build up to explosive concentrations.
• Make sure the area is properly ventilated and the batteries have been
on a float charge at a voltage less than 2.20 volts/cell for at least 48
hours before performing any work around the battery. If working
around or with batteries in an area that may not have sufficient air
movement, provide more air movement (for example, by using a
portable fan placed at a safe distance from the batteries).
• ALWAYS place batteries in a well-ventilated area.
• NEVER place batteries in a sealed enclosure. Even enclosures/rooms
with ventilation need to be properly evaluated to assure hydrogen
will not accumulate to explosive levels.
DANGER!
RISK OF EXPLOSION
• Battery gases are explosive. Do not allow sparks or open flame
near batteries.
• Do not smoke around batteries.
• Never charge batteries without vent funnel in place.
• Do not handle, move, or work around batteries during or for 48
hours after charging at a voltage greater than 2.20V/cell.
• Handle, move, or store charged cells only with vent funnel
(NOT orange shipping plug) in place.
• If the orange shipping plug must be reinstalled for
transportation, let the battery sit for an additional 24 hours at
open circuit after the 48-hour float charge (less than 2.20 volts/
cell) before removing the vent funnel and replacing it with the
orange shipping plug.
• Do not allow gas vents to become clogged or an explosion due
to internal pressure may result.
• Properly ventilate battery area.
• Do not place batteries in a sealed enclosure/room.
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