Generac Power Systems OG 2697 - Manual (Page 5)

4
Do not open or mutilate the battery. Released
electrolyte can be toxic and harmful to the
skin and eyes.
The battery represents a risk of high
short-circuit current. When working on the
battery, always remove watches, rings or
other metal objects, and only use tools that
have insulated handles.
Vented Batteries
The electrolyte is a diluted sulfuric acid
that is harmful to the skin and eyes. It is
electrically conductive and corrosive. The
following procedures are to be observed:
Wear full eye protection and
protective clothing.
If electrolyte contacts the skin, wash it
off immediately with water.
If electrolyte contacts the eyes, flush
thoroughly and immediately with water
and seek medical attention.
Spilled electrolyte is to be washed down
with an acid-neutralizing agent. A common
practice is to use a solution of one pound
(500 grams) bicarbonate of soda to one gallon
(4 liters) of water. The bicarbonate of soda
solution is to be added until the evidence
of reaction (foaming) has ceased. The
resulting liquid is to be flushed with water
and the area dried.
Lead acid batteries present a risk of fire
because they generate hydrogen gas. The
following procedures are to be followed:
DO NOT SMOKE when near batteries.
DO NOT cause flame or spark in battery area.
Discharge static electricity from body
before touching batteries by first touching a
grounded metal surface.
Servicing of batteries is to be performed or
supervised by personnel knowledgeable of
batteries and the required precautions. Keep
unauthorized personnel away from batteries.
For recommended batteries, see the
Installation Guide. All batteries must be at
00 percent state of charge before they are
installed on the generator.
When using maintenance-free batteries, it is
not necessary to check the specific gravity
or electrolyte level. Have these procedures
performed at the intervals specified in the
“Maintenance” section in the Owner’s
Manual. A negative ground system is used.
Battery connections are shown on the wiring
diagrams. Make sure all batteries are correctly
connected and terminals are tight. Observe
battery polarity when connecting batteries to
the generator set.
NOTE:
Damage could result if the battery
connections are made in reverse.