Safety Tip Tuesday - Battery Procedures
Most of us don’t deal with batteries with our normal job duties. However, we all have electronic devices that have batteries that we use daily, including computers, iPads, and cell phones. We had two recent incidents with batteries, prompting a safety directive for battery spill procedures. This directive serves as guidance for emergency response when batteries are damaged and at risk of leaking.
In the event of an electrolyte leak, flush with water for 15 minutes then wash with soap and water. There is a battery spill kit located in the IS department for cleaning up battery spills.
In the event there is risk of fire or explosion, avoid using water, use class D fire extinguisher, copper powder or dry sand. Place battery in Lipo-Guard bag located in IS department and place in plastic battery bucket outside (in e-waste recycling area).
Procedures
The goal is to create a safe work zone for employee protection and public safety. If you don’t feel comfortable using the spill cleanup kit, please ask for assistance.
Identify damaged battery.
Isolate the area, extinguish any open flames and turn off the charger.
Remove all metal jewelry and tools from the area.
PPE should be worn prior to battery acid clean up (goggles, face shield, apron, gloves).
Use hazmat absorbents to contain the spill – located in IS department.
Use hazmat absorbents or neutralizers to soak up spilled electrolyte – located in IS department.
Sweep any loose absorbents and neutralizers and place all spent materials in disposal bags or containers.
Rinse affected area (s).
Report incident to Safety & Environmental Programs Coordinator.