standards and guidelines for communication sites - Radio And ...

BATTERY SYSTEMS CHAPTER 6: POWER SOURCES
6.7.1 BATTERY SAFETY
WARNING
Motorola employees and contractors shall not handle hazardous materials unless
properly trained. This includes warehouse storage, transportation, and installation of
battery systems.
WARNING
Wet cell battery failure involving large-scale electrolyte leakage may constitute a
Hazardous Material (HAZMAT) condition. Under no circumstances shall regular site
personnel perform HAZMAT handling. Special training and HAZMAT certification, spill
mitigation and reporting, and cleanup techniques/monitoring is required under the
Federal Clean Water Act and NFPA regulations.
WARNING
Batteries used for powering equipment pose the following risks. Always use
appropriate caution when working with and around batteries.
Explosion hazard resulting from inherent generation of hydrogen sulfide gas;
Chemical burn/blindness resulting from sulfuric acid electrolyte. Wash affected skin or
eyes immediately with running water. Seek medical help immediately.
Very high current capabilities, with the possibility to burn, start fires, and result in
arcing.
NOTE: Material Safety and Data Sheets (MSDS) describing the nature of HAZMAT materials present at a
communications site, their reactivity, flammability, and emergency spill/release mitigation and
reporting are required at each site.
All applicable NFPA, OSHA and local codes shall be followed regarding battery installations and
maintenance work.
Battery manufacturer warning statements shall be understood and complied with. The manufacturer's
statements shall determine the type and extent of Personal Protective Equipment required in minimizing
battery handling hazards for the batteries being installed.
This section provides safety rules to be followed when working with wet cell batteries. Wet cell
batteries require more stringent handling and safety precautions than dry cell batteries. In all cases,
manufacturer's documentation shall be read and understood before installing or maintaining battery
systems. Placards placed directly on the battery define the precautions required. See “Typical Battery
Safety Kit” on page 3-30 for the required equipment to be provided at the site for working with
batteries.
6-28 68P81089E50-B 9/1/05