Boat Battery Safety: Deadly Shock Risks?

In a recent rally, former US President Donald Trump posed a question: What would happen if a boat sank from its weight and you are in the boat and you have this tremendously powerful battery and the battery is now underwater and there's a shark that's approximately 10 yards over there... Do I get electrocuted or do I jump over by the shark? This has sparked concerns about the dangers of electric boats and raised the question: Will a boat battery electrocute you?

Electric shock drowning

The majority of electric shock drowning deaths have occurred in public and private marinas and docks, with the typical victim being a child swimming in or around these areas. The water appears and feels safe, but it can become energized with deadly electricity in an instant. The victim's muscles become paralyzed by the electrical current, rendering them unable to swim and ultimately leading to drowning.

To prevent electric shock drowning, it is crucial to ensure that all electrical hookups on piers and boats are code-compliant and safe. Additionally, swimmers should maintain a safe distance from electrically active devices, such as marinas and docks. In the event of a suspected electric shock drowning, the primary method of rescue is to get the swimmer away from the current source without sending in other swimmers.

While electric shock drowning is a serious concern, it is important to note that modern electric boat batteries are designed to be watertight and meet high waterproofing standards. However, it is still crucial to follow safety precautions and be aware of the risks associated with electricity and water.

Battery acid spillage

Battery acid spills can be dangerous and should be cleaned up immediately. The type of battery will determine the best way to clean up the spill. Here is a general guide to cleaning up battery acid spills:

Protect yourself

Before attempting to clean up a battery acid spill, it is important to protect yourself. Wear non-permeable gloves, such as latex or nitrile gloves, and goggles that completely cover your eyes. You can also use a face shield for additional protection. If you have respiratory issues or are concerned about inhaling toxic fumes, wear a respirator. To avoid irritating your skin, wear a long-sleeved shirt and pants. Ensure that the area is well-ventilated by opening windows and using fans to circulate the air.

Identify the battery type

The two most common types of batteries that leak are alkaline and lead-acid batteries. Lead-acid batteries, commonly found in cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles, contain sulfuric acid, a corrosive and toxic chemical. Alkaline batteries contain potassium hydroxide, which is less acidic but can still burn the skin with extended exposure.

Neutralize and clean the spill

For lead-acid or nickel-cadmium batteries, sprinkle baking soda liberally over the spill until it stops fizzing. Absorb any leftover material with clay or kitty litter and shovel it into a double trash bag. For small spills, use paper towels to absorb the baking soda mixture before placing them in a double bag.

For lithium-ion batteries, wipe up the spill with a paper towel or cloth soaked in water. Place the battery and any contaminated materials in two large plastic bags and seal them immediately.

For alkaline batteries, use a mild acid like vinegar or lemon juice to neutralize the spill. Dip a cotton swab in the vinegar or lemon juice and apply a few drops to the affected area. Use a toothbrush or cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to remove any residue. Allow the area to dry for several hours before disposing of the battery.

Dispose of the battery and contaminated materials properly

Double-bag small batteries separately and put larger batteries, such as car batteries, inside two trash bags made from thick polyethylene. Take the batteries to a recycling center or hazardous waste facility for disposal. Do not throw them in the trash or recycling bin.

Prevent future spills

To prevent battery acid spills, store batteries properly in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Do not store batteries on metal surfaces, as they may cause a spark and ignite the battery acid. Handle batteries with care and avoid dropping or puncturing them. Cover battery terminals with electrical tape to prevent short circuits, which can heat up batteries and cause acid to leak.

Short circuits

A short circuit occurs when the hot and ground sides of the two battery terminals come into direct contact. This usually happens through the boat's body because it is connected to the ground. However, there can be other reasons as well.

There are two types of shorts: a direct path between the ground and power, and a ground short where the current bypasses through direct contact, usually through rudders, drives, shafts, and hull fittings.

To find a short circuit in a boat, you can perform a visual inspection for any signs of damage, such as burned or frayed wires. You can also use a multimeter set to measure resistance, inspect the boat's circuit breakers and fuses, isolate individual circuits, and use an ammeter to evaluate the current flowing through each circuit.

To prevent short circuits, it is important to ensure that the boat's terminals and contact points are well-insulated and that electrical contacts are not worn out. Regular boat maintenance is essential to identify and address any potential issues.

Symptoms of a short circuit include blown fuses, tripped circuit breakers, a burning smell, smoke, or malfunctioning electrical components. If you suspect a short circuit, it is important to consult a professional marine electrician to ensure safety and compliance with marine electrical standards.

Faulty wiring

To prevent ESD, boatbuilders must adhere to USCG and ABYC or ISO standards for electrical systems. They should also include information in the owner's manual about ESD and the importance of not altering the electrical system without a certified marine electrician.

Additionally, any boat with an AC system should have a galvanic isolator or an isolation transformer, and an ELCI (Electrical Leakage Circuit Interrupter). The wiring should be done in compliance with the ABYC standard E-11 for Electrical Systems on Boats.

It is also important to note that low-voltage direct current electricity (DC under 50 volts) may not pose a shock hazard, but it can still start fires. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your boat meets all US Coast Guard and ABYC standards for both AC and DC systems.

• Turn off the power supply and disconnect the battery before starting any work.
• Wear protective gear, including non-conductive gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing.
• When removing a battery, always disconnect the negative terminal first to avoid electrical shorts or sparks.
• Label all connections to prevent confusion and facilitate easy troubleshooting.
• Avoid mixing battery types or using batteries of varying ages to prevent uneven load distribution and potential damage to the electrical system.
• Use proper wiring materials, such as marine-grade wires and connections made from copper and tin, for optimal conductivity and durability.
• Test the connections before turning on the power to ensure all wires are correctly attached.
• Never modify or alter electrical components without proper knowledge and experience.

By following these safety precautions, you can minimise the risk of accidents and protect yourself and your boat from potential electrical hazards.

High-voltage batteries

When it comes to safety concerns, one common question that arises is the potential risk of electrocution. While it is theoretically possible to be electrocuted by a boat battery, the likelihood is extremely low. The primary reason for this is that the human body has a high resistance, which prevents a 12V battery from producing a lethal current in 99.99% of cases. Additionally, high-voltage batteries used in boats are designed with safety in mind, featuring puncture-resistant shells and watertight enclosures to prevent accidental exposure to water.

It is important to note that while electrocution from a boat battery is unlikely, other hazards associated with these batteries exist. For instance, a 12V DC system can still pose risks such as acid spillage and short circuits, which could lead to injury or damage. Therefore, it is crucial to take appropriate safety precautions when working with or around high-voltage boat batteries.

To ensure safety, boat owners should invest in high-quality batteries and follow proper installation and maintenance procedures. This includes using waterproof battery cases, external sensors for monitoring, and internal devices to cut off power in case of emergencies. By taking these precautions, the risks associated with high-voltage boat batteries can be significantly reduced.

In conclusion, while high-voltage batteries are an integral part of modern boating, safety should always be a top priority. By understanding the potential risks and taking the necessary precautions, boat owners can confidently enjoy their time on the water without worrying about electrocution or other battery-related hazards.

Frequently asked questions