12/03/2025
Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries – are they a fire risk?
Faulty or misused Lithium-ion (Li-ion) rechargeable batteries, such as those in mobile tech devices, cordless tools, and even motor vehicles like cars and vans, can fail, leading to devastating consequences. According to this Fire Risk guidance pack from AXA, we will see more and more Li-ion Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) applications as we push towards a sustainable future, but this comes with some concerns around their safety.
Since their introduction in the early 1990s, Li-ion batteries have become essential for applications where a device cannot be permanently connected to a power supply – whether as small as a torch or as large as a forklift truck or even an aircraft, like the Rolls-Royce Spirit of Innovation.
So, we know they’re everywhere, but what’s the risk? And should we be concerned?
Although every care can and should be taken to minimise risks, occasionally, things can go wrong. Li-ion batteries can fail due to electrical issues, mechanical damage, manufacturing faults, or exposure to external heat.
- Failure of a Li-ion battery can lead to thermal runaway, resulting in severe fires or explosions that are difficult to extinguish.
- This process includes huge temperature increases, steady and lengthy burning, venting of gases, and potential explosions.
- Environmental contamination can occur from fire runoff and the release of toxic gases during these battery failures.
What can we do to help prevent these failures?
Fires from Li-ion batteries can be tricky to extinguish, so anything we can do to prevent failure is essential. This list is not exhaustive but gives users some great advice to get their fire prevention procedures started:
- Staff training is essential for minimizing fire risks, including safe handling, inspection, and adherence to OEM guidelines.
- Storage configurations for Li-ion batteries should be assessed to prevent fire spread, with recommendations for dedicated storage areas.
- Damaged or waste batteries must be stored in non-combustible containers and removed to external locations, ideally 10m from buildings.
- Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) require specific storage and maintenance protocols to mitigate fire hazards.
- Fire Risk Assessments (FRA) should be updated to address Li-ion battery risks and may require additional assessments under Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmosphere Regulations 2002 (DSEAR).
- Emergency procedures must reflect the presence and type of Li-ion batteries, with local Fire and Rescue Service engagement recommended for large quantities.
- Regular collection of faulty batteries by licensed contractors should be reviewed to prevent accumulation on-site.
For more steps you can take, information about Li-ion, case studies, and links to regulatory documentation, make sure you take time to read through AXA’s Fire Risk Guidance: Lithium-ion Rechargeable Batteries.
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