HAZARD
VSC Risk Management has identified fire and chemical hazard exposures present in company vehicles due to improper storage of batteries and flammable chemicals. New and used batteries are stored unsecured in VSC vans and trucks. The battery terminals are uncovered and therefore can ignite a fire. For example, 12 Volt batteries used in alarm panels are a fire hazard when battery terminals contact metal surfaces of the vehicle, toolboxes, and other metallic items. This will cause the battery to overheat and ignite a fire in the VSC vehicle.
PREVENTATIVE MEASURES
- As described in the safety data sheet (SDS), batteries can emit hydrogen when overheated and must not be stored near
ignition sources or flammable chemicals. - Batteries must be stored in the box they are shipped with, or in a separate nonmetallic container secured and away from
ignition sources and chemicals. - To prevent new and used battery terminals from contact with metal or
another battery, put the plastic tabs on the connectors or cover them with
electrical tape.
AS PER VSC’S FIRE PROTECTION POLICY AND OSHA, A FIRE EXTINGUISHER MUST BE KEPT ON ALL VSC VEHICLES FOR EMERGENCIES!