Lead acid batteries contain diluted sulphic acid which is poisonous and corrosive. It will cause burns and irritation if it comes in contact with eyes or skin.

When handling batteries always wear appropriate protective clothing and eye protection.

Acid Spill on battery

This spill requires cleaning. Unfortunately there are more issues to consider here besides the acid spill.

Loss of acid from inside the cell will require replacement as the concentration of acid is critical to battery capacity.

Acid over cells will cause corrosion and earth leakage.

Cleaning of the battery involves washing the battery. This can be done by applying a neutralizing agent over the top of the cells and flushing the battery with water.

Important:

DO NOT allow neutralizing agent to enter cells - This will reduce battery capacity.

DO NOT allow battery waste to drain in to storm water. Drain waste into a vessel and dispose of as waste product through authorised disposal company.

Acid spill on floor

This spill requires cleaning. If acid quantity is large and runs on floor, surround acid with bunding sock or use neutralizing absorbent material as a wall surrounding spill to contain the run of acid over floor or towards plant and equipment.

Once acid is contained neutralize remaining acid and absorb.

Dispose of acid in general waste only if acid is completely neutralized or dispose of as waste material with authorised disposal company.

Click to see our range of emergency response Spill Kits and Industrial Absorbents.

If you feel these jobs are best left to the professionals, or you do not have sufficient equipment to contain and control an acid spill, please Contact Us immediately.