Battery Care
Battery Handling
- Avoid terminals contacting metal surfaces, metal tools, jewellery, etc. that may accidentally short-circuit the battery
- Do not drop or mechanically deform the battery as this may short-circuit the battery internally and can cause fire
- It is recommended that the battery be checked for mechanical damage before use
- Damaged batteries may leak a corrosive fluid. If damaged, handle with protective gloves / wear goggles. Avoid contact with eyes / skin
- Do not simultaneously handle both terminals of the battery. Under normal conditions, a battery voltage less than 40v. is not considered dangerous. A voltage above 40v. can be fatal.
Battery Storage
- Store all batteries in a cool, dry environment (0-25°c preferred) away from flammable vapours and gasses
- Nickel cadmium batteries will slowly self-discharge with time, but may be stored either charged or discharged without damage
- Sealed lead acid, nickel metal hydride and lithium ion batteries will self-discharge, but should not be allowed to become fully discharged. It is recommended that these batteries be recharged every six months
- Battery charging and discharge testing must only be carried out by trained technicians
- Batteries may release hazardous materials and/or explode if overcharged, over-discharged or damaged
- Rechargeable batteries are recommended to be installed within two years of the date of manufacture, subject to sealed lead acid, nickel metal hydride and lithium ion batteries being stored in a cool environment and fully recharged every six months.
