MSDS

SECTION IV: Health Hazard Information
NOTE: Under normal conditions of battery use, Internal components will not present a health
hazard. The following is provided for battery electrolyte (acid) and lead for exposure that may
occur during battery production or container breakage or under extreme heat conditions such
as fire.
ROUTES AND METHODS OF ENTRY
Skin Contact
Battery electrolyte (acid) may cause irritative contact dermatitis.
Skin Absorption
Skin absorption is not a significant route of entry.
Eye Contact
Battery electrolyte (acid) will irritate the eyes upon contact.
Ingestion
Hands contaminated by contact with internal components of a battery can cause ingestion of
lead/lead compounds. Hands should be washed prior to eating or drinking.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF OVEREXPOSURE
Acute Effects
Acute effects of overexposure to lead compounds are GI (gastrointestinal) upset, loss of
appetite, diarrhea, constipation with cramping, difficulty in sleeping and fatigue. Exposure
and/or contact with battery electrolyte (acid) may lead to acute irritation of the skin, corneal
damage of the eyes if not washed immediately, and irritation to the mucous membranes of the
eyes and upper respiratory system, including the lungs.
Chronic Effects
Lead and its compounds may cause chronic anemia, damage to the kidneys and nervous
system. Lead may also cause reproductive system damage and can affect developing fetuses
in pregnant women. Battery electrolyte (acid) may lead to scarring of the cornea and chronic
bronchitis, as well as erosion of tooth enamel in mouth breathers in repeated exposures.
POTENTIAL TO CAUSE CANCER
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified "strong inorganic acid
mist containing sulfuric acid" as a Category 1 carcinogen, a substance that is carcinogenic to
humans. The ACGIH has classified "strong inorganic acid mist containing sulfuric acid" as an
A2 carcinogen (suspected human carcinogen). These classifications do not apply to liquid
forms of sulfuric acid or sulfuric acid solutions contained within a battery. Inorganic acid mist
(sulfuric acid mist) is not generated under normal use of this product. Misuse of the product,
such as overcharging, may however result in the generation of sulfuric acid mist.