Wear plastic gloves to prevent acid burns. An apron or smock will protect
your clothes.
Working With Acid
Clean up acid spills immediately using a water and baking soda solution to
neutralize (1lb. baking soda in 1 gallon of water).
Make sure the acid container is clearly marked and the work area is
well-lighted and well-ventilated.
If sulfuric acid is swallowed or splashed in the eyes, treat immediately.
Sulfuric acid in the eyes can cause blindness. Serious internal injuries or
death can result if swallowed. Used as an electrolyte, sulfuric acid can burn
the skin.
ANTIDOTES: For acid on the skin, flush with water. If
acid is swallowed drink large quantities of milk or water, followed by
milk of magnesia, vegetable oil or beaten eggs. Do not induce vomiting. Call a
poison control center or doctor immediately. For acid in the eyes,
flush for several minutes with water and seek immediate medical
attention.
Charging Safety
When charging conventional batteries, loosen vent caps and ventilate
charging area. A buildup of hydrogen and oxygen in the battery or in the
charging area can create an explosion hazard.
If the battery feels hot to the touch during charging, STOP. Allow the
battery to cool before charging again. Heat damages the plates, and a battery
that is too hot can explode.
NEVER put the red sealing cap back on the battery once you take it off. If
you do, gases will become trapped and could explode.
Make sure the vent tube isn't kinked or blocked. Otherwise, gases could
build up and explode.
Properly connect the charger to the battery: positive charger lead to
positive battery post and negative charger lead to negative battery post. Unplug
the charger or turn it off before you disconnect the leads, which will cut down
on the chance of sparks.
ABSOLUTELY NO SMOKING, SPARKS OR FLAMES AROUND CHARGING BATTERIES. Charging
gives off hydrogen and oxygen, which explode if ignited.
