Why lithium-ion batteries matter in our everyday lives
In the last two decades, lithium-ion (also known as Li-ion) rechargeable batteries have become increasingly popular. Their usage can be found in commercial, residential and industrial settings due to the demands of modern living.
These batteries are now commonplace and can be found in various devices, such as e-scooters and e-bikes, e-cigarettes, mobile phones, cameras, laptops and tablets and even DIY power and garden tools. And, of course, electric vehicles (EV) and hybrid vehicles. The drive for sustainability has also increased their use as they are found in battery energy storage systems (BESS) applications, namely photovoltaic (PV) solar panels for residential properties and commercial premises. Their usage will likely increase as we strive to create a more environmental world.
From swelling to explosion – the chain reaction of battery fires
As is often the case, they rarely lead to a fire risk, but when it does, the repercussions can be catastrophic. This is due to their chemical composition, which includes a flammable electrolyte. The reason for their volatility is down to how they’re made. If the battery cell creates more heat than it can release, it can lead to a release of energy (thermal runaway), which can result in a fire and/or explosion. Gases can often be released when a thermal runaway happens. These can spread, unignited and potentially cause an explosion leading to a secondary fire. The highest fire risk occurs when a battery is being charged, has been damaged previously, overcharged or continually charged.
When a fire occurs, an explosion is often the final stage of the process. It begins firstly with an increase in temperature, which causes swelling and a rupturing of the electrical case; this then leads to venting or off-gassing of flammable and toxic vapours, which creates a flare, then a steady burn, a subsequent flash fireball, which ultimately ends with the explosion.
Here are some of the primary causes of lithium battery fires:
- Electrical – this includes the use of incompatible chargers, overcharging, over-discharging, electrical surge, external short-circuits of terminals or cables
- Mechanical damage – physical damage caused by dropping, puncturing, bending, crushing, vehicle collision or other external forces. Batteries can ignite several days or weeks after the initial damage has occurred
- Faults – internal defects during manufacturing, internal short-circuits, battery management system (BMS) failure
- External heat – exposure to an external heat source such as storage close to heaters, an open flame or an accidental fire.
To help reduce the risk of lithium battery fires, there are several measures that can help.
Commercial buildings
- Fire risk assessments should reflect the presence of Li-ion battery fire risks, and any recommendations should be actioned.
- All emergency procedures should be updated to reflect the presence, quantity, and type of Li-ion batteries on the premises.
- Attention should be paid to effectively dealing with damaged or faulty batteries. If a large number of Li-ion batteries are present, it is recommended that the local fire and rescue service be made aware of them.
- As part of the fire risk assessment, there should be a provision for suitable portable fire extinguishers (Lith-Ex), and training should be given to staff on their usage, mainly due to the toxic nature of smoke and gases
- Appropriate training should be provided to staff on the measures to minimise the fire risks associated with Li-ion batteries, taking into account inspections before using equipment, safe handling and storage to look for damage or faults.
Residential dwellings
Advice for tenants on e-scooters/e-bikes:
- E-scooters and e-bikes should be safely charged in well-ventilated, external buildings (separate from your residential building)
- Tell your tenants about the risk of fire from lithium batteries and the vital importance of not charging these on their premises
- Carry out a robust fire safety assessment to identify risks and how to mitigate them.
Advice for tenants on electrical and hybrid vehicles (EV):
- The fire risks associated with EV vehicles usually centre on their installation and usage. Consideration should be given to the installation of charging points, which professionals should carry out
- Consider impact protection to reduce claims for damage whilst reversing and parking
- Ensure that tenants use the correct charging portal to charge vehicles.
For all risks:
- Li-ion batteries should be handled, used, charged, and stored in accordance with the original equipment manufacturer’s (OEM) guidelines
- Always use a suitable OEM or compatible charger designed to charge the specific battery cells or battery packs in use
- Check equipment that uses Li-ion batteries regularly and test and maintain it in accordance with the OEM recommendations
- Look for signs of wear and tear and dispose of Li-ion batteries safely.
Proper storage of batteries
There are no specific health and safety requirements for storing batteries, but normal health and safety rules apply. This includes that the responsible person should assess health and safety risks.
In a workplace, the ‘responsible person’ is the employer or person who occupies or owns the premises, or the ‘responsible person’ will be the person in control of the premises. The Health and Safety Executive considers the risks of storing small quantities of portable batteries very low if sensible precautions are taken. However, these should be considered in a business’s health and safety risk assessment.
Automotive batteries
Producers of automotive batteries must collect waste automotive batteries from final holders, such as licensed recycling facilities, local authority waste facilities, or garages that accept automotive batteries. End users must fund and arrange the transfer to a final holder and ensure that the holder may legally accept this type of waste by discharging their duty of care.
Portable batteries
For mixed loads or loads containing special waste batteries (such as NiCd and mercury-containing batteries), retain a special waste consignment note for at least three years. For non-special waste batteries (such as alkaline batteries), a controlled waste transfer note must be securely retained for at least two years.
Insurance implications of lithium-ion batteries
The widespread use of Li-ion batteries in our everyday lives comes with significant risks, especially for insurance claims in the UK. As previously noted, these batteries can overheat and potentially cause fires or explosions, leading to severe property damage or injury. Insurers are noticing more claims related to these incidents and are increasingly cautious. Improper disposal can also harm the environment, adding another layer of concern. Because of these risks, insurers now demand stricter safety measures and compliance with regulations.
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If you're concerned about lithium-battery fire risks and would like to discuss potential insurance solutions with us, visit our residential property page for contact options.
