5.3 Health And Safety Considerations When Handling And Storing Batteries Improper storage and handling of universal waste batteries can pose special health and safety risks. Steps should be taken during the handling and storing of batteries to minimize the risks of explosion or adverse health effects. Mercury vapors may accumulate in sealed drums if stored for an extended period of time. Containers should be placed in a well-ventilated area to minimize worker exposure to mercury vapor emissions when they are opened to add or remove batteries. When accumulating different types of batteries, be aware that some types of batteries may be incompatible with each other.
Explosion is another potential risk when batteries are stored in contact with one another.
Waste batteries that contain a residual charge when collected together may discharge each other, creating heat and forming hydrogen gas. If the container is not properly ventilated there is a potential for an explosion. There is a potential for partially-corroded batteries to leak caustic chemicals. If proper precautions are not taken, workers handling batteries may get chemical burns on their skin. Workers handling batteries should protect themselves by wearing protective clothing, including rubber gloves, eye protection and rubberized aprons.