SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Although all valve-regulated cells have the electrolyte immobilized
within the cell, the electrical hazards associated with batteries still
exists. Work performed on these batteries should be done with
the tools and the protective equipment listed below. Valve-
Regulated cell installations should be supervised by personnel
familiar with batteries and battery safety precautions.
WARNING: Risk of fire, explosion or burns. Do not disassemble,
heat above 40°C, or incinerate.
Protective Equipment
Although VRLA cells can vent or leak small amounts of electrolyte,
electrical safety is the principle but not the only concern for safe
handling. Per IEEE 1188 recommendations, the following minimum
set of equipment for safe handling of the cells and protection of
personnel shall be available:
1. Safety glasses with side shields, or goggles, or face shields
as appropriate. (Consult application specific requirements)
2. Electrically insulated gloves, appropriate for the installation.
3. Protective aprons and safety shoes.
4. Portable or stationary water facilities in the battery vicinity for
rinsing eyes and skin in case of contact with acid electrolyte.
5. Class C fire extinguisher.
6. Acid neutralizing agent.
7. Adequately insulated tools (as defined by ASTM F1505
“Standard Specification for Insulated and Insulating Hand Tools).
8. Lifting devices of adequate capacity, when required.
Procedures
The following safety procedures should be followed during
installation:
Always wear safety glasses or face shield when working on or
near batteries.
1. These cells are sealed and contain no free electrolyte. Under normal
operating conditions, they do not present any acid
danger. However, if the cell jar or cover is damaged, acid could be
present.
Sulfuric acid is harmful to the skin and eyes.
Flush affected area with water immediately and consult a
physician if splashed in the eyes. Consult SDS for additional
precautions and first aid measures.
SDS sheets can be obtained at
www.eastpennmanufacturing.com
2.
Prohibit smoking and open flames, and avoid arcing in the
immediate vicinity of the battery.
3. Do not wear metallic objects, such as jewelry, while working on
cells. Do not store un-insulated tools in pockets or tool belt while
working in vicinity of battery.
4. Keep the top of the battery string dry and clear of tools and other
foreign objects.
5. Provide adequate ventilation
(per IEEE standard 1187 and/or
local codes)
and follow recommended charging voltages.
6.
Never
remove or tamper with the pressure relief valves, except for
cell replacement. Warranty void if vent valve is removed.
7. Inspect flooring and lifting equipment for functional adequacy.
8. Adequately secure cell modules, racks, or cabinets to the floor.
9. Connect support structures to ground system in accordance with
applicable codes.
10. The below IEEE Standards contain additional information. Other
standards may be relevant to your specific application.
IEEE 1184 - Guide for Batteries for UPS Systems
IEEE 1187 – Recommended Practice for Installation Design of
VRLA Batteries
IEEE 1188 – Recommended Practice for Maintenance, Testing, of
VRLA Batteries
IEEE 1189 – Selection of VRLA Batteries for Stationary
Applications
RECEIVING & STORAGE
Receiving Inspection
Upon receipt, and at the time of actual unloading, each package
should be visually inspected for any possible damage or electrolyte
leakage. If either is evident, a more detailed inspection of the entire
shipment should be conducted and noted on the bill of lading.
Record receipt date, inspection data and notify carrier of any
damage.
Original packaging should remain on battery during
transportation to prevent damage to the battery or short circuit
of the terminals.
Unpacking
1. Always wear eye protection.
2. Check all cells for visible defects such as cracked containers,
loose terminal posts, or other unrepairable problems. Cells with
these defects must be replaced.
3. Check the contents of the packages against the packaging list.
Report any missing parts or shipping damage to your
East Penn agent or East Penn Mfg. Co. immediately.
4. Never lift cells by the terminal posts.
NOTE : Do not place cells in an upright position during
installation, storage or transporting.
5. When lifting cells and modules, the proper equipment is needed
such as a forklift or a portable crane. Always check the lifting
capacities of the equipment being used and never lift more than
one module and or cell at a time.
Storage / Refresh
Cells should be installed, and float charged upon delivery. If cells
are to be stored, the below requirements shall be followed
1. Cells shall be stored indoors in a clean, level, dry, cool location.
2. Store, charge, and ship in horizontal position only.
3. Battery pallets shall not be double stacked, or equipment stored
on top.
4. Recommended storage temperature is 50°F (10°C) to 77°F
(25°C). Acceptable storage temperature is 0°F (-18°C) to 90°F
(32°C).
5. The cells shall be given a refresh charge at regular intervals as
detailed below:
0°F(-18°C) to 77°F (25°C)
Cells shall be charged by the “battery charge date” marked on
pallet.
Successive recharges shall be performed every 6 months.
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