Perth Petroleum Services Oil & Chemical Spill Equipment

How to safely use a battery acid spill kit

Batteries that use sulphuric acid are a major concern to human health should they leak. The sulphuric acid contained within a battery is an extremely corrosive and dangerous liquid that requires special handling in the event of a leak or spill.

Incorrect absorbents can create a thermic reaction which results in the liquid spraying and spitting and releasing harmful gasses. Inhalation of these gasses can cause damage to internal organs.

Small spills, less than a few litres, can be handled using a battery acid spill kit. Contained within a protective red hard-case, this easily identifiable and portable spill kit can be stored wherever batteries are used. It’s ideal for minesites, garages, forklift storage areas or battery storage areas.

This battery acid spill kit is different to most others in that the acid is neutralised with a solution before attempts are made to absorb the liquid.

How to use the battery acid spill kit:

This spill kit is designed for spills of 2000mL or less. If the spill is larger, do not attempt clean up and call Fire and Emergency Services on 000.

1. Isolate the area, notify supervisors, and control access to the area. Wear and use all protective equipment contained within the kit (nitrile gloves, goggles, poly apron) at all times before, during and after spill clean up. Responders should be wearing long pants, long sleeves and enclosed shoes.
2. Place absorbent pads over the spilt liquid.
3. Slowly spray or pour the acid neutraliser solution on the contained spill. The colour of the liquid will change from purple to yellow and then a reddish tone as the acid is neutralised.
4. Use new absorbents pads or the Aqualock absorbent polymer to absorb the remaining free liquid.
5. Sweep up the polymer material and take used absorbent pads and place carefully into the disposal bag. Place all used PPE into the bag and tie it off.
6. Label the bag and store safely. Dispose of waste through a licensed hazchem company.

Call PPS for guidance and to replace used equipment.