Ref: 9602-0584
TANK BATTERIES
STATEMENT
Pursuant to
CONTROL OF SUBSTANCES HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH REGULATIONS
(C.O.S.H.H.)
1. PRODUCT: Tank Batteries
2. COMPONENTS: Active materials - Lead, Lead Dioxide, Lead Sulphate and Dilute Sulphuric Acid (maximum strength 40%).
Other components - Polypropylene box material, Flame retardent 94-V2.
During proper use the battery should pose no health risk. Exposure of the battery to fire or container damage can however, lead to the hazards noted below:-
3. ACTIVE MATERIALS:
3.1 FIRE & EXPLOSION HAZARD: Both Lead Dioxide and Sulphuric Acid may evolve toxic fumes in a fire. No hazard is recorded for Lead metal (strip) or Lead Sulphate.
3.2 HEALTH HAZARD
1) Lead and Lead Compounds: Harmful by ingestion and if inhaled as dust. Major hazard is due to the cumulative effects of Lead (symptoms include digestive disturbances, pallor, anaemia, blue line on gums). Lead and its compounds are not known to be carcinogenic however, they may cause adverse mutagenic and teratogenic effects. The maximum exposure limit (MEL)in a working environment is 0.15mg/m³ as lead.
2) Sulphuric Acid: If ingested causes severe internal irritation and damage. Dilute Acid irritates the eyes and skin and may cause burns and dermatitis.
Toxicity - LD 50 ORAL 2140mg/Kg - rat LD 50 INHALED 0.51 mg/litre - rat.
There is no evidence of Sulphuric Acid having carcinogenic, mutagenic or teratogenic effects. Exposure limit OES (Occupational Exposure Standard) 1mg/m³.
FIRST AID
EYES Irrigate thoroughly with water for at least 10 minutes.
OBTAIN MEDICAL ATTENTION
LUNGS Remove from exposure, rest and keep warm. In severe cases:-
OBTAIN MEDICAL ATTENTION
SKIN Lead compounds, wash thoroughly with water. Sulphuric Acid, drench with water.
IN BOTH CASES IF CONTACT IS SEVERE - OBTAIN MEDICAL ATTENTION
MOUTH Wash out with water and give plenty of water to drink.
OBTAIN MEDICAL ATTENTION
3.3 REACTIVE HAZARD Contact between the following battery components and other substances must be avoided:-
Lead Oxidising Chemicals.
Lead Dioxide Sulphides and various metals and non-metals.
Also combustibles.
Lead Sulphate Potassium metal, can react explosively.
Sulphuric Acid Can cause Acetinitrile to undergo a violent reaction. Can react vigorously or violently with organic nitro- compounds, and with potassium permanganate, metal halogenates, perchlorates and alkali metals. Avoid contact with bases. Evolves heat when in contact with water (violent reaction if acid is concentrated).
3.4 SPILLAGE’S It is unlikely that there will be a spillage from these batteries since all electrolyte is retained in the absorbent separator. However, if spillage does occur, it should be neutralised with a dilute solution of alkali (sodium bicarbonate, soda ash etc.) and diluted with plenty of water.
4. OTHER MATERIALS
4.1 FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARD
1) Glass fibre mat (separator). None Noted.
2) Polypropylene box material Flammable, may produce toxic fumes on burning.
flame retardent 94-V2
4.2 HEALTH HAZARD
1) Glass fibre mat Fibres are irritating to skin, eyes and respiratory system. May cause physical damage to eyes and skin.
There is no evidence of this material being carcinogenic, mutagenic or teratogenic. Exposure limits not assigned.
FIRST AID
EYES Irrigate thoroughly with water. If discomfort persists
OBTAIN MEDICAL ATTENTION
LUNGS Remove from exposure.
SKIN Wash thoroughly with soap and water.
MOUTH Wash out mouth thoroughly with water. If irritation is severe
OBTAIN MEDICAL ATTENTION
4.3 REACTIVE HAZARDS
1) Glass fibre mat None Noted.
5. GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS:
5.1 USE AND CHARGING Do not lift by the terminals.
Short circuiting of the battery must be avoided, due to its low internal resistance, to prevent the risk of explosion and injury. This is particularly important if it occurs whilst the battery is on charge.
Remove metal objects from person (e.g. jewellery, watch bands, belt buckles, etc.). Use insulated tools.
During charge, naked flames and sparks must be avoided in the immediate proximity of the battery.
5.2 FIRE As with all electrical fires, extinguish with foam or dry powder.
5.3 DISPOSAL Dispose of in a discharged state. Remove the vent top and Bunsen valve and dispose of following the advice on the attached sheet. Do not incinerate!
WRITTEN / APPR'VD / REV & DATE / 00MRA No