The following fire safety tips will help avoid a lithium-ion battery fire:Don't overcharge or let devices sit plugged in overnight. Keep batteries away from extreme heat or moisture. Keep them in cool, dry places.
Specific risk control measures should be determined through site, task and activity risk assessments, with the handling of and work on batteries clearly changing the risk profile. Considerations include: Segregation of charging and any areas where work on or handling of lithium-ion batteries is undertaken.
The standard covers issues such as overcharging, over-discharging, short circuiting and thermal runaway, so does cover some aspects of fire hazards. Other standards for Lithium-ion batteries include UL-1642 and UL-9540. Meanwhile, the charity, Electrical Safety First, is championing proposed legislation on the safety of lithium batteries.
How can I reduce the risks when charging lithium batteries?
There a number of ways you can reduce the risks when charging lithium batteries: Only ever use the correct charger for your battery, otherwise you can greatly increase the risk of fire. Always buy any replacement chargers from a reputable seller.
How can lithium-ion batteries prevent workplace hazards?
Whether manufacturing or using lithium-ion batteries, anticipating and designing out workplace hazards early in a process adoption or a process change is one of the best ways to prevent injuries and illnesses.
Over the past four years, insurance companies have changed the status of Lithium-ion batteries and the devices which contain them, from being an emerging fire risk to a recognised risk, therefore those responsible for fire safety in workplaces and public spaces need a much better understanding of this risk, and how best to mitigate it.
What policies should be in place for lithium-ion batteries?
Clear policies and rules should be in place specific to provision, storage, use and charging of equipment containing lithium-ion batteries, these being formally communicated at induction, through regular toolbox talks and on signing-in where visitors and contractors are concerned.