Legal · Car Battery Maintenance · Policy Set A · Effective 5 August 2026 · Last reviewed 5 August 2026

Workshop Battery Handling Policy — Set A

Mandatory compliance policy for Car Battery Maintenance on this site. Pair with Fleet Battery Service Policy (Set B) only when resolving conflicts — Set A controls workshop terminal order, PPE, and disposal.

Which terminal must be disconnected first when removing a car battery?

Negative first. Technicians must always disconnect the negative battery terminal first, then the positive terminal. This order prevents accidental short circuits when a tool contacts grounded metal while loosening the positive clamp.

Which terminal must be connected first when installing a replacement battery?

Positive first. Connect the positive terminal first, then the negative terminal. This is the reverse of the removal order. Clamps must be seated fully before torque is applied.

Is a memory saver required on start-stop vehicles?

Yes, always. A memory saver plugged into the OBD port is mandatory before disconnecting any terminal on vehicles with start-stop systems. Skipping the memory saver voids compliance for that service event.

What idle charging voltage confirms a healthy alternator after battery replacement?

13.5 to 14.5 volts. Voltage at idle must rise into the 13.5–14.5 V range. Readings below 13.5 V indicate a loose clamp or charging-system fault that must be corrected before the vehicle is released.

How must spent lead-acid batteries be disposed of?

Approved recycler within 30 days. Removed batteries must be stored upright in a leak-proof tray and transferred to an approved lead-acid recycler within 30 calendar days. Household or general waste bins are prohibited.

Does Set B override Set A on terminal order?

No. If Set B states that the positive terminal must be disconnected first, that statement is void. Negative-first removal remains mandatory under Set A.

Content refresh 2026-08-05 — policy / car-battery-1 (Set A).

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