User guide

Guidelines for Handling Lithium Batteries 9
Publication 1747-IN515A-EN-P - May 2004
In Case of a Lithium Fire
If lithium is burning:
• avoid exposure to toxic fumes from burning lithium
• smother the fire using a Class D fire extinguisher or a graphite powder, such
as Lith-X
• you can also use a long-handled tool to apply an appropriate metal fire
extinguishing powder
Hazards to Personnel
Potential hazards to personnel include:
• burns from overheated cells
– Wash skin with running water and go to the nearest medical center.
• injury from explosion or violent rupture of overheated cells
• injury from fire caused by combustion of lithium
• exposure to toxic or corrosive liquids or gases from the battery or its
decomposition products
– Remove and discard contaminated clothing.
– Wash areas where clothing touched skin.
– If breathing difficulties result, remove the person from the area,
administer oxygen, then go to the nearest medial center.
– If the battery contents come in contact with eyes, rinse eyes immediately
for at least 15 minutes without interruption. Go to the nearest medical
center and advise the attending physician of contact with lithium
batteries.
ATTENTION
Do not use water or carbon dioxide (CO
2
) fire extinguishers in a
lithium battery fire. Lithium reacts with these substances.