SDS

V. Fire and Explosion Data
Flash Point (test method)
Hydrogen - 259
o
C
Autoignition Temperature
Hydrogen 580ºC
Flammable Limits in Air, % by Vol.
Hydrogen LEL - 4.1 UEL - 74.2
Extinguishing Media
Dry chemical, foam, or CO
2
Special Fire Fighting Procedures
Use positive pressure, self-contained breathing apparatus.
Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazard
Hydrogen and oxygen gases are produced in the cells during normal battery operations, hydrogen is
flammable and oxygen supports combustion. These gases enter the air through the vent caps. To avoid
the chance of a fire or explosion, keep sparks and other sources of ignition away from the battery.
VI. Reactivity Data
Stability
 Unstable ; Stable
Conditions to Avoid
Sparks and other sources of ignition may ignite hydrogen gas.
Incompatibility (materials to avoid)
Lead/lead compounds: Potassium, carbides, sulfides, peroxides, phosphorus, sulfur.
Battery electrolyte (acid): Combustible materials, strong reducing agents, most metals, carbides, organic
materials, chlorates, nitrates, picrates, and fulminates.
Hazardous Decomposition Products
Lead/Lead compounds: Oxides of lead and sulfur
Battery electrolyte (acid): Hydrogen, sulfur dioxide, sulfur trioxide
Hazardous Polymerization
 May Occur ; Will Not Occur
Conditions to Avoid
High temperature. Battery electrolyte (acid) will react with water to
produce heat. Can react with oxidizing or reducing agents.
VII. Control Measures
Engineering Controls
Store lead acid batteries with adequate ventilation. Room ventilation is required for batteries utilized for
standby power generation. Never recharge batteries in an unventilated, enclosed space.
Work Practices
Make certain vent caps are on tightly. Place a minimum of two layers of corrugated cardboard between
layers of batteries. When stacking in trailer, stack no more than three layers high. Use a battery carrier
to lift a battery or place hands at opposite corners to avoid spilling acid through the vents. Avoid contact
with internal components of the batteries.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Respiratory Protection
None required under normal handling conditions. During battery formation (high-rate charge condition),
acid mist can be generated, which may cause respiratory irritation. If irritation occurs, wear a respirator
suitable for protection against acid mist.
Eyes and Face
Chemical splash goggles are preferred. Also acceptable are “Visor-Gogs” or a chemical face shield
worn over safety glasses with solid side shields.
Hands, Arms, and Body
Vinyl-coated, PVC, gauntlet-type gloves with rough finish.
Other Special Clothing and Equipment
Safety shoes worn with rubber or neoprene boots or steel-toed rubber or neoprene boots worn over
socks. Place pants legs over boots to keep acid out of boots. All footwear must meet requirements of
ANSI Z41.1-1991.