Lithium batteries are in e-bikes, e-scooters, power tools, laptops and phones, and many of them are charged at work. They are safe when undamaged and charged correctly. When one fails, it burns fiercely, gives off toxic smoke and can reignite after it seems to be out. A few simple rules cut the risk.
Why lithium battery fires are different
- A failing cell heats itself and sets off the cells beside it.
- The fire develops in seconds, with jets of flame and dense smoke.
- It is hard to put out with an ordinary extinguisher and may flare up again.
- An e-bike or scooter charging in a hallway can block the only way out.
What makes a battery more likely to fail
- Damage from a drop, a crash or water.
- Cheap or incompatible chargers.
- Modified or converted bikes with kits bought online.
- Overcharging, or charging in a hot place.
- Age and heavy use.
Rules for charging at work
- Decide whether to allow it. If staff may charge e-bikes and scooters on site, say where. If not, say so clearly.
- Never on an escape route. Not in corridors, stairwells, lobbies or beside exits.
- Choose a suitable place. Ideally outside or in a ventilated area away from stored goods, with detection.
- Use the manufacturer’s charger and plug it straight into a wall socket.
- Do not leave batteries charging overnight or when the building is empty.
- Unplug when charged.
- Stop using damaged batteries. Swelling, heat, a strange smell, hissing or leaking mean the battery should be moved somewhere safe outside and not charged again.
Tools, laptops and devices
The same rules apply on a smaller scale. Charge power tool batteries on a non-combustible surface, not on a pile of packaging. Do not leave device chargers running on soft furnishings.
If a battery catches fire
Raise the alarm, get everyone out and call the fire service. Do not try to move a burning battery. Tell the fire service that a lithium battery is involved.
Disposal
Do not put lithium batteries in general waste or mixed recycling, where they can be crushed and start a fire. Use a battery recycling point.
Add it to your fire risk assessment
Battery charging is a change in risk that many older assessments do not cover. It is a reason to review your fire risk assessment, especially in offices and warehouses.
Safer Solutions covers battery charging in every fire risk assessment. Call 086 275 9728, email info@safersolutions.ie or request a quote.