What Is Health and Safety?

We all make use of batteries on a daily basis and, in many respects, we now take batteries for granted. The vast majority of creature comforts and technology that we make use of today will require a battery, or batteries, of some description and, despite the frequency with which they are used, the average person is often not too aware of the basic do’s and don’ts of looking after their batteries.

So, in order to better understand the batteries that power the majority of things that we use in modern society, let’s take a look at the various do’s and don’ts of caring for batteries…

Do’s:

There are obviously too many points to mention them all but let’s take a look at some of the most basic and rudimentary things that you must do when using batteries and helping to ensure that they perform optimally:

ü      Instructions – It is important to read the instructions on both the battery packaging and on the device you are using the batteries on before you install them into the device. This will make sure that you are using batteries that are fit for purpose.

ü      Removal – When removing batteries from a device, whether this is a television remote, computer controller or any other device, it is important that you remove all the batteries at the same time and then promptly replace them with your new batteries (of the same size and type).

ü      Children – Needless to say, you must keep batteries away from children as they are dangerous if swallowed. If a battery is swallowed, you must contact a doctor immediately and they will advise on the best course of action.

ü      Time – If you know that you’re not going to be using a device for a long time i.e. weeks or months, you should take the batteries out of the device.

ü      Storage – Most people will have some spare batteries in their homes and how you store them is important. Batteries should be stored in a dry environment at a standard room temperature.

ü      Alignment – This may seem like an obvious point but make sure that you insert your batteries correctly with the (+) and (-) terminals in properly alignment. If this isn’t the case, the device won’t operate and it may damage the batteries themselves.

Don’ts:

When it comes to batteries, it is important to respect them and not use them in any potentially dangerous manner. Some of the main things to avoid when using batteries can be seen below:

Disposal – One of the most important things to remember when it comes to the disposal of batteries is to make absolutely sure that you don’t dispose of them in fire – as this is likely to lead to the batteries exploding.

Carriage – Carrying around loose batteries in pockets or bags is also to be avoided. If you have any metal objects (paper clips, coins etc) in your bag or pockets that come into contact with the batteries, it has the potential to short-circuit the battery which, in turn, can lead to high levels of heat.

Charging – A common mistake amongst consumers is to attempt to recharge batteries that aren’t clearly marked as being ‘rechargeable’. Attempting to recharge batteries that aren’t suitable won’t work and may damage the battery itself.

Separate – It is important not to mix old batteries with new batteries in a device because this has the potential to cause battery rupture or leakage – both of which may result in some form of personal injury or property damage.

BIO:

Leo is a gadget and technology blogger who is frequently on the lookout for cheap batteries to power his array of gadgetry.