Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2018L01173:body:0:p58
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2018L01173
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 149678–152633

is liable to explode when electrical supply is on. There is a similar risk when an electrolytic capacitor is discharged by a short circuit.

12.5              Batteries and battery rooms
Particular hazards when charging batteries are hydrogen explosion and short circuits. During charging, a battery gives off hydrogen and oxygen and the subsequent mixture can be easily ignited. Short circuits may cause arcing which could lead to an explosion or burn seafarers.
Battery rooms therefore, must be adequately ventilated to avoid accumulation of explosive gases.
Light fittings and any electrical equipment in the battery room should be certified as being suitable for use in a hydrogen enriched atmosphere. Light fittings in battery compartments should be properly maintained at all times, with protective glass in position and properly tightened. If cracked or broken glass cannot be replaced immediately, the electric circuit should be isolated until replacements are obtained.
All electrical connections including battery terminals, in battery compartment should be checked regularly and well maintained. Unclean and poor connections may cause overheating and sparking. Temporary clip-on connections should never be used as they may become loose due to vibration, cause a spark and short circuit.
Insulation and/or guarding of cables in battery compartments should be well maintained.
No unauthorised modifications or additions should be made to electrical equipment (including light fittings) in battery compartments.
Only authorised persons should enter battery rooms and, when doing so, they should ensure that they do not introduce any source of ignition. A warning notice prohibiting smoking or welding in and near battery rooms should be displayed near the entrance to the compartment.
Battery rooms should be kept clear of any equipment, including any other electrical equipment likely to act as a source of ignition, and should not be used as storerooms.
When using metal tools or implements, avoid making contact with the metal battery case or terminals.
Remove jewellery, watches and rings etc. when working on batteries. A short circuit through any of these items will generate heat rapidly and may cause a severe skin burn. If rings cannot be removed, they should be heavily taped in insulating material.
Lead-acid batteries and alkaline batteries should not be stored in the same room because of the possible interaction of the electrolytes. Where both lead-acid and alkaline batteries are in use, ensure that the materials and tools used in servicing each type are kept apart, as contamination of the electrolytes may cause deterioration of battery performance and mixing of the two electrolytes may produce a vigorous, uncontrollable chemical reaction.
Battery chargers and all circuits fed by the battery should be switched off when leads are being connected or disconnected. Whilst individual cell voltages may not present a shock risk,