TB 43-0134
b.
Type number. BA-2 through BA-471 series
into your eyes, it can cause severe damage and/or blindness.
Repeated or prolonged exposure to low concentrations of
(except BA-245, 259 & 380); BA-500 series; BA-800 series.
c.
Solid waste characterization.
H2SO4 fumes or mist will cause tooth erosion and irritation of
the mucous membranes, eyes and upper respiratory tract.
(1) Under federal RCRA: NHSW.
Contact lenses should not be worn and smoking should be
(2) Bioassay findings: HW in states which
prohibited in areas where H2SO4 is stored or handled.
utilize bioassay characterization criteria for HW identification.
(5) Pb and Pb salts are toxic and hazardous
Presently AK, CA, MN, RI and WA utilize this criteria.
materials. It is recommended to turn-in LA batteries wet. If
d.
Handling. See para 2-3.
you must drain the battery, the H2SO4 electrolyte MUST be
Fire control/suppression.
A C02 fire
tested for Pb prior to disposal. If Pb is below the RCRA
extinguisher is recommended. See para 2-4.
regulatory limit (5.0 mg/L), then the electrolyte may be
f.
Storage. See para 2-5.
disposed in accordance with TG No. 126 with the concurrence
of the IEO and the affected waste water treatment authority.
CAUTION
b.
Type number BB-XXX.
Depleted batteries may continue to vent
c.
Solid waste characterization.
hydrogen gas after use, and if stored at high
(1) Under federal RCRA: HW with a US
temperatures above 130 F.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) HW number (EPA
g.
Transportation requirements. See para 2-6 for
HW#) of D008 for Pb.
packaging, marking and labeling requirements. Not regulated
(2) Bioassay findings: Not tested. Presumed
under Title 49 CFR, Part 172.101 HMT.
to be toxic based on Pb content.
h.
Disposition and disposal. DO NOT accumulate
d.
Handling. See para 2-3.
and store waste batteries for disposal for more than 90 days.
See para 2-7.
WARNING
(1) Dispose of LCE batteries as NHSW in
DO NOT use metal or galvanized equip-
accordance with RCRA regulations. These batteries may be
disposed with general refuse.
ment when draining electrolyte from Lead-
(2) In states with bioassay requirements, LCE
Acid batteries.
batteries are classified as HW, and disposition/disposal may
DO NOT use finely divided combustible
be through your local servicing DRMO or via local contract.
materials (e.g., sawdust) to absorb an
H2SO4 spill. H2SO4 is highly reactive and can
4-4.
Lead-acid (LA) Batteries
react with finely divided combustible
Lead-acid batteries are secondary (rechargeable) batteries.
materials on contact.
There are two kinds of LA batteries: sealed batteries without
(1) DO NOT attempt to drain electrolyte from
vent-filler caps, and vented batteries with vent-filler caps for
sealed secondary batteries.
servicing the battery.
(2) DO NOT drain electrolyte from vented
a.
Chemical characterization
secondary batteries unless authorized.
(1) Anode: Lead (Pb).
(3) If H2S04 electrolyte spills or leaks, DO
(2) Cathode: Lead dioxide (PbO2).
NOT touch spilled material. Stop the leak if you can do it
(3) Electrolyte: Aqueous solution of sulfuric
without risk. Spread sand or other noncombustible material,
acid (H2SO4).
then flush area with water. Notify the local SO and IEO.
(4) The battery cell contains 60 to 75 percent
(4) If battery contents or electrolyte come in
Pb and PbO2 by weight. The battery cell contains an acidic
contact with the skin, IMMEDIATELY flush the affected area
electrolyte solution of between 28.3% and 50.5% H2SO4 by
for at least 15 minutes with clean WATER and seek medical
attention promptly.
weight. The electrolyte is a strong oxidizing agent and can
cause severe skin burns or irritation upon contact. If acid gets
4-2
