Emergency decontamination stations in battery material handling areas must adhere to strict design requirements to mitigate risks associated with chemical exposure, thermal events, and physical injuries. These stations must comply with safety standards, incorporate effective spill response materials, and include trauma-specific medical supplies. Regular maintenance and testing protocols ensure operational readiness.

### Eyewash and Emergency Shower Placement
Eyewash stations and emergency showers must meet ANSI Z358.1 standards, which specify performance and installation criteria. Stations must be located within 10 seconds of travel time from hazardous areas, with unobstructed access. The path to the station must be free of obstacles, and signage must be clearly visible.

For battery handling areas, eyewash units must deliver tepid water (60-100°F) at a flow rate of 0.4 gallons per minute (gpm) for at least 15 minutes. Emergency showers must provide 20 gpm for the same duration. Plumbed systems are preferred over self-contained units due to their unlimited water supply. If tepid water is not available through tempered supply, a thermostatic mixing valve or heated eyewash unit is required.

Stations must be installed in areas where corrosive or reactive materials, such as electrolytes or lithium metal, are handled. Dual-function units (combined eyewash and shower) are recommended for high-risk zones. Weekly activation tests must confirm proper flow, temperature, and operation of valves.

### Neutralization and Spill Control Supplies
Battery electrolyte spills require immediate containment and neutralization. Traditional absorbents like vermiculite are ineffective for acidic or alkaline electrolytes. Specialized absorbents, such as polyethylene-based pads or neutralization granules, are necessary.

For lithium-ion battery electrolytes (typically lithium salts in organic solvents), absorbents must be chemically compatible. Polypropylene pads or silica-based absorbents are suitable for non-aqueous electrolytes. Acid spills (e.g., from lead-acid batteries) require sodium bicarbonate or calcium carbonate-based neutralizers. Alkaline spills (e.g., potassium hydroxide in nickel-based batteries) need citric acid or acetic acid-based neutralizers.

Spill kits must include:
- Absorbent pads (minimum 10 pads per kit)
- Neutralizing agents (1 lb per expected spill volume)
- Acid/alkaline spill-specific neutralizers
- Scoops and disposal bags (chemical-resistant)
- Nitrile gloves and goggles

Spill response protocols must be posted near stations, and personnel must receive annual training. Expiration dates of neutralizing agents must be checked monthly.

### Trauma Kits for Lithium Burns
Lithium burns require specialized treatment due to the metal’s reactivity with water. Standard burn kits are insufficient. Trauma kits must include:
- Mineral oil or silicone-based burn dressings (to smother lithium fires)
- Class D fire extinguishers (lithium-specific, such as copper powder)
- Dry powder extinguishing agents (e.g., Lith-X)
- Non-water-based irrigation solutions (for skin contact)
- Sterile, non-adherent bandages

For skin exposure, the affected area must be covered with oil to prevent lithium’s reaction with moisture. Do not use water-based solutions. Eye exposure requires immediate flushing with oil-based irrigants if available, followed by saline if oil is not on hand.

### Maintenance and Weekly Testing Protocols
Decontamination stations must undergo weekly functional tests and monthly inspections. A sample checklist includes:

**Weekly Tests:**
1. Activate eyewash/shower for 15 seconds to verify flow and temperature.
2. Check for leaks or valve malfunctions.
3. Inspect signage and accessibility.
4. Verify spill kit components are sealed and undamaged.
5. Ensure trauma kit supplies are within expiration dates.

**Monthly Inspections:**
1. Flush plumbed systems for 3 minutes to prevent sediment buildup.
2. Test thermostatic valves for temperature accuracy.
3. Replace expired spill neutralizers or absorbents.
4. Inspect Class D extinguishers for pressure and damage.
5. Review incident logs for near-misses or equipment failures.

**Annual Requirements:**
1. Full system flush to clear microbial contamination.
2. Pressure testing of plumbing lines.
3. Retraining of personnel on equipment use.

### Conclusion
Emergency decontamination stations in battery handling areas must integrate ANSI-compliant eyewash/showers, chemically appropriate spill kits, and lithium-specific trauma supplies. Weekly testing and strict maintenance protocols ensure readiness. Proper placement, training, and equipment selection reduce risks associated with battery materials, safeguarding personnel and facilities.