Safety data sheet

JOHNSON CONTROLS MSDS No. L8
INHALATION: Acid mist generated during battery charging or spillage of the electrolyte in a confined area may
cause respiratory irritation.
INGESTION: Hands contaminated by contact with internal components of a battery can cause ingestion of
lead/lead compounds. Ingestion of battery electrolyte will cause severe burns to mouth and gastrointestinal tract.
ACUTE HEALTH EFFECTS:
Acute effects of overexposure to lead compounds are GI (gastrointestinal) upset, loss of appetite, diarrhea,
constipation with cramping, difficulty in sleeping, and fatigue. Exposure and/or contact with battery electrolyte
(acid) may lead to acute irritation of the skin, corneal damage of the eyes, and irritation of the mucous membranes
of the eyes and upper respiratory system, including lungs
CHRONIC HEALTH EFFECTS:
Lead and its compounds may cause chronic anemia, damage to the kidneys and nervous system. Lead may also
cause reproductive system damage and can affect developing fetuses in pregnant women. Battery electrolyte
(acid) may lead to scarring of the cornea, chronic bronchitis, as well as erosion of tooth enamel in mouth breathers
in repeated exposures.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS AGGRAVATED BY EXPOSURE:
Inorganic lead and its compounds can aggravate chronic forms of kidney, liver, and neurological diseases.
Contact of battery electrolyte (acid) with the skin may aggravate skin diseases such as eczema and contact
dermatitis.
Section 4: FIRST AID MEASURES
EYE CONTACT: Immediately rinse with cool running water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention
immediately after rinsing.
SKIN CONTACT: Wash thoroughly with soap and water. If acid is splashed on clothing, remove and discard.
If acid is splashed in shoes, remove them immediately and discard. Acid cannot be removed from leather.
INHALATION: Remove from exposure and consult a physician if any of the acute effects listed above develop.
INGESTION: Lead: Consult a physician. Battery Electrolyte: Do not induce vomiting. Refer to a physician
immediately.
Section 5: FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
FLASHPOINT: For Hydrogen – N/A as this is a gas. TEST METHOD: N/A
AUTOIGNITION TEMPERATURE: Hydrogen - 580ºC
FLAMABLE LIMITS: For 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.
Section 6: ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES
Remove combustible materials and all sources of ignition. Contain spill by diking with soda ash (sodium
carbonate) or quicklime (calcium oxide). Cover spill with either chemical. Mix well. Make certain the mixture is
neutral, and then collect residue and place in a drum or other suitable container. Dispose of as a hazardous waste.
Wear acid-resistant boots, chemical face shield, chemical splash goggles, and acid-resistant gloves.
DO NOT RELEASE UNNEUTRALIZED ACID!
5