Batteries with terminals not protected against direct contact should have their banks broken into groups of what voltage?

Batteries with terminals that are not protected against direct contact are a safety concern, especially in marine environments where exposure to moisture and other elements can increase the risk of short circuits and electrical accidents. When organizing these batteries into banks, the general guideline is to keep the voltage at or below a threshold that minimizes the risk of severe shock or electric arc.

Grouping battery banks to maintain a voltage of 60 VDC or less is deemed appropriate because this level provides a balance between operational efficiency and safety. At voltages higher than 60 VDC, the danger of severe electric shock increases significantly, as the human body's threshold for feeling a current rises, which could result in more serious injuries or hazards in case of unintentional contact.

By adhering to this guideline, safety measures are enhanced, ensuring that individuals handling or working near these batteries are less prone to accidental electric shock, while still allowing the systems to operate effectively.