PRINCIPLES OF CORROSIVE CHEMICAL FIRST-AID

TM 11-6140-203-14-4&P

TIGHTENING TERMINAL SCREWS

AND STUDS

Tools used to tighten terminal screws and studs should have plastic or wooden

handles. If not, cover with non-conductive tape or material. If a metal part should

fall across cell terminals, a short could occur. This could cause bodily injury

and/or damage to the equipment. Be sure all nuts and studs between cells and to

battery terminals are torqued to proper tightness. A loose part could cause high

heat and destruction of the battery. Prevent personal injury when applying or

removing steel strapping by wearing heavy gloves and protective eyewear. Do

not handle packing carton by the steel strapping.

PRINCIPLES OF CORROSIVE CHEMICAL

FIRST-AID

1. In the event of contact with the eyes, immediately flush eyes with water and

continue to flush for 15 minutes.

The first few seconds after contact are critical and immediate flushing of

the eyes may prevent permanent damage. An eyewash fountain is

preferred, however, an eyewash hose or any other source of water

should be used in an emergency. Alkali (base) burns are usually more

serious than add burns.

2. Strong chemicals burn the skin rapidly. There is not time to waste. Begin

flushing the area with water immediately. Remove and discard clothing, in-

cluding socks and shoes (obtain other clothes and shoes). Continue flooding the

area, while clothing is being removed.

3. The precautionary warnings on the product label should be consulted for full

first-aid information. Provide the label information to the attending physician.

4. Neutralizers and solvents (alcohol etc.) should not be used by the first aider.

The spread of skin absorbing corrosive poison, like phenol can result in death

(Don't depend upon spilled chemicals to evaporate from your clothes. Exposure

of skin can kill you).

FIRE FIGHTING SAFETY PRACTICE

Water is the most acceptable agent for extinguishing a fire in or near a battery

compartment. A Co2 extinguisher is also acceptable once a fire has started.

However, static electricity generated by the discharge of the extinguisher could

explode hydrogen/oxygen gases trapped in the battery compartment.