News Update 

From mobile phones and laptops to power tools, e-bikes, and portable chargers, lithium-ion batteries are an integral part of everyday life. While they provide reliable, rechargeable power, they also pose a significant fire risk that businesses cannot ignore.

When lithium-ion batteries become damaged, overheated, improperly charged or develop internal faults, they can enter a process known as thermal runaway. This is a self-sustaining chain reaction within the battery that generates extreme heat and can result in fire, explosion and the release of toxic and flammable gases. Unlike many conventional fires, lithium battery fires can develop rapidly, spread quickly and may reignite hours or even days after they appear to have been extinguished.

For health and safety professionals, the challenge is that these batteries are now everywhere. The risk is not limited to company-owned equipment. Employees may bring personal devices, mobile phones, vapes, e-bikes, e-scooters and power banks into the workplace, introducing potential hazards that are often overlooked during risk assessment processes.

Spotting the warning signs

Many battery incidents are preventable if early warning signs are recognised. Users should be encouraged to stop using and safely isolate batteries or devices that show signs of:

• Excessive heat and smoke
• Swelling or distortion
• Overheating during normal use or charging
• Unusual smells
• Leaking fluids
• Hissing, crackling or popping noises
• Damage caused by dropping, crushing or impact

Reducing the risk

Simple controls can significantly reduce the likelihood of an incident.

Good practice includes:

• Using manufacturer-approved chargers and batteries
• Avoiding charging on soft furnishings or combustible surfaces
• Keeping escape routes clear of charging equipment
• Avoiding overnight charging where possible
• Removing damaged batteries from service immediately
• Providing suitable storage arrangements for spare batteries

Safe disposal matters

Improper disposal is another significant concern. Lithium batteries should never be placed in general waste bins. Damaged or discarded batteries can become crushed during handling and transportation, causing fires in waste collection vehicles and recycling facilities.

Instead, batteries should be disposed of through approved recycling schemes or designated battery collection points. Where practical, terminals should be protected to prevent accidental short-circuiting during storage and transport.

Extinguishing a lithium-ion battery fire

 As mentioned, the main hazard is thermal runaway, where the battery generates its own heat and can continue to burn or reignite even after visible flames have been extinguished. Unlike many conventional fires, lithium-ion battery fires can be challenging to extinguish. The primary objective is to cool the battery and prevent the spread of thermal runaway. Even after flames have been extinguished, batteries may reignite and should be monitored carefully.

If a small Lithium-Ion battery device is burning:-

Firstly if safe to do so, remove to an outside area safe place.

• Raise the alarm and call the Fire and Rescue Service.
• If safe to do so, isolate the area and evacuate people nearby.
• Use copious amounts of water to cool the battery and adjacent batteries.
• Continue cooling for an extended period, even after flames appear extinguished.
• Monitor for re-ignition.

For Larger Batteries

• Evacuate the area immediately.
• Call the Fire and Rescue Service without delay.
• Do not attempt to move a battery that is overheating, smoking, or involved in fire unless there is an immediate life risk.
• Large volumes of water are generally the most effective method of cooling and controlling thermal runaway.
• Be aware that toxic and flammable gases may be released.

Managing the risk

Lithium batteries power much of modern working life, but they bring risks that should not be underestimated. By raising awareness, promoting safe charging practices and ensuring suitable disposal arrangements are in place, organisations can help prevent fires, protect people and minimise disruption to their business.