[Code of Federal Regulations]
[Title 29, Volume 8]
[Revised as of July 1, 2007]
From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access
[CITE: 29CFR1926.441]

[Page 265]
 
                             TITLE 29--LABOR
 
CHAPTER XVII--OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT 
                                OF LABOR
 
PART 1926_SAFETY AND HEALTH REGULATIONS FOR CONSTRUCTION--Table of Contents
 
                          Subpart K_Electrical
 
Sec. 1926.441  Batteries and battery charging.

    (a) General requirements--(1) Batteries of the unsealed type shall 
be located in enclosures with outside vents or in well ventilated rooms 
and shall be arranged so as to prevent the escape of fumes, gases, or 
electrolyte spray into other areas.
    (2) Ventilation shall be provided to ensure diffusion of the gases 
from the battery and to prevent the accumulation of an explosive 
mixture.
    (3) Racks and trays shall be substantial and shall be treated to 
make them resistant to the electrolyte.
    (4) Floors shall be of acid resistant construction unless protected 
from acid accumulations.
    (5) Face shields, aprons, and rubber gloves shall be provided for 
workers handling acids or batteries.
    (6) Facilities for quick drenching of the eyes and body shall be 
provided within 25 feet (7.62 m) of battery handling areas.
    (7) Facilities shall be provided for flushing and neutralizing 
spilled electrolyte and for fire protection.
    (b) Charging--(1) Battery charging installations shall be located in 
areas designated for that purpose.
    (2) Charging apparatus shall be protected from damage by trucks.
    (3) When batteries are being charged, the vent caps shall be kept in 
place to avoid electrolyte spray. Vent caps shall be maintained in 
functioning condition.