Even though we use SLA (Sealed Lead Acid) batteries in frc. You might get unlucky one day and end up with a battery spilling. It’s always a good idea to be prepared.
What is your team’s procedure for a battery spill?
This is what I have,
Notify, First clear the area, notify a safety caption and mentors.
Protect your hands and face, Before touching the battery spill make sure you have safety goggles, and a pair of gloves made out of rubber, nitrile or latex.
Neutralize, After you have put on PPE, you cover all of the spilled area with a generous amount of baking soda. Put baking soda on until it stops fizzing and bubbling.
Contain, Once the area is neutralized, carefully lift the battery into two gallon size ziploc bags and then into a thick plastic bin.
Neutralize, Neutralize the area again.
Clean, Now you will have to clean all of the neutralized acid from the area. To do this use a shop towel to sweep it all into one pile. Then safely pick it up with the towel and put it into a separate bag along with any other contaminated items including your gloves. Finally seal the bag shut. You can also use a plastic shovel and a brush to pick it up.
Let me know if I am missing anything, or if you have any suggestions or comments. What else do you add in your battery spill instructions? What’s in your spill kits?