OM2041 9/11 Safety - Section 20 Page 20-9 WORKING NEAR BATTERIES Batteries generate hydrogen gas. Hydrogen gas is very explosive and can easily be ignited with a small spark or flame. Battery Hazard Prevention Battery electrolyte contains sulfuric acid, which can quickly burn the skin and eat holes in clothing. If you spill acid on yourself, immediately flush the area with water. Before working with batteries, stop the engine and turn the key switch to the OFF position. Avoid short-circuiting the battery terminals through accidental contact with metallic objects, such as tools, across the terminals. Battery acid can cause blindness if splashed into your eyes.
If acid gets into your eyes, flush them immediately with large quantities of water and see a doctor at once. When removing or installing batteries, check which is the positive (+) terminal and the negative (-) terminal. If you accidentally drink acid, drink a large quantity of water, milk, beaten eggs or vegetable oil. Call a doctor or poison prevention center immediately. Tighten the battery terminals securely. Loose terminals can generate sparks and lead to an explosion. Always wear safety glasses or goggles when working with batteries. Tighten battery caps securely.