BATTERY SAFETY
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305-CAF-01-IMDO © 2025, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | WSPS.CA
Working with Battery Acid
Wear the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) – specifically splash-proof goggles , an apron,
and rubber gloves - a face shield may also be necessary when handling certain batteries
Store acid away from hot locations and direct sunlight
Slowly pour concentrated acid into water; do not add water into acid
Use non-metallic containers and funnels
Use extreme care to avoid spilling or splashing the sulphuric acid solution
Neutralize any spilled or splashed sulphuric acid solution with baking soda and rinse the area with
clean water
Use self-levelling filler that automatically fills the battery to a predetermined level - never fill cells
above the level indicator
Clean up spilled acid safely – first with a solution of sodium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate
(baking soda) to neutralize it, and then with large volumes of water to rinse the area
Read SDS of Sulphuric Acid before handling it
Charging Battery
Make sure that you have been trained how to charge the battery
Wear safety gloves and goggles
A safety shower and an eyewash station should be installed in a battery-charging area
Charge batteries in a properly ventilated area
Ensure there is an ABC-type fire extinguisher nearby
Make sure the power is shut off at the charger before connecting or removing the cable clamps
Before recharging a battery, check the electrolyte level
If the electrolyte is covering the top of the plates, do not add more water
If the battery has been outside in cold weather, make sure that the battery is not frozen
Connect the negative cable to the frame or motor block instead of the battery terminal
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