Whenever you are handling or working with a lead-acid battery, consult your vehicle and battery owners' manual for instructions and safety precautions. Lead-acid batteries contain hydrogen-oxygen gases that can be explosive. Also, the sulfuric acid that can cause severe burns. To help avoid risk of danger and injury, observe these precautions while handling or working with a lead-acid battery:
- Wear safety glasses or goggles and a face shield.
- Make sure work area is well-ventilated.
- Never lean over battery while boosting, testing or charging.
- Cigarettes, flames or sparks could cause the battery to explode.
- Keep all ignition sources away from the battery.
- Do not charge or use booster cables or adjust post connections without proper instructions and training.
- Keep vent caps tight and level.
- In event of accident, flush with water and call a physician immediately.
- Keep the battery out of reach of children.
- Avoid metallic contact across the terminals, as this can result in short circuit and sparking.
- Always maintain a clean battery surface, as dust accumulation can cause vent plug blockage.