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Battery powered equipment is commonplace in modern mining operations. Battery power often has many advantages over other types of power for mining equipment. In recent years, several hundred accidents have occurred where miners were blinded or seriously burned by batteries. Many of these accidents were related to charging, installing, removing, or maintaining batteries. MSHA believes these types of accidents are preventable. In addition, miners can be protected from needless serious injury if they wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as chemical resistant rubber gloves, aprons and face shields.
Batteries contain acid and can explode and/or catch on fire. In the event of a battery explosion or fire, acid and toxic fumes are released. When acid contacts the skin, extremely painful burns and scarring result. When breathed, the lungs are burnt from the toxic chemicals present in fumes. Blindness will likely result if this acid contacts the eye. These physical injuries are irreversible. Therefore, when working with batteries, it is important to prevent exposure by wearing PPE.
When batteries are being charged, explosive gasses are produced. Heat and sparks can ignite these gasses causing a fire or explosion. All smoking, open flames and spark producing items such as grinders, welders or other electrical equipment, should be kept well clear of batteries. 
Surface leakage is a condition caused when dust mixes with spilled electrolyte on the battery, creating a low resistance path. This low resistance path can "short"
the battery. A shorted battery creates heat that can potentially cause a fire. Batteries should be kept relatively clean and free of excess dust to insure against shorting.
Accidents and injuries involving batteries are avoidable. DO your part!! Battery Manufacturers
ALWAYS CHECK MANUFACTURERS RECOMMENDED PROCEDURES BEFORE SERVICING A BATTERY !!!!!
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Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) 1100 Wilson Boulevard, 21st Floor Arlington, VA 22209-3939 |
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