Implementing safety measures, such as building battery safety awareness, proper design and manufacturing, adequate ventilation, thermal management, and regular safety studies, can support in reducing the potential for accidents.
However, despite the glow of opportunity, it is important that the safety risks posed by batteries are effectively managed. Battery power has been around for a long time. The risks inherent in the production, storage, use and disposal of batteries are not new.
Various process safety studies can be applied to battery operations. A HAZID can identify potentially hazardous scenarios associated with the handling, assembly, use, storage or testing of Li-ion batteries and their components. Other studies that could be applied include:
Explosion protection, such as structural reinforcements and explosion relief panels, can help mitigate the effects of an explosion in containerised battery energy storage systems. Various process safety studies can be applied to battery operations.
Proper battery design, manufacturing and installation are necessary to ensure safety. The batteries themselves should include built-in safety features such as vents and separators. Energy storage systems should also have safety features to protect against short-circuiting, overcurrent, arc flashing, and ground faults.
However, the increased use of lithium-ion battery technologies does not come without risk. The potential for thermal runaway, leading to battery fires in accident or loss of control scenarios, is widely acknowledged. Lead-acid batteries also come with the risk of hydrogen off-gassing during normal operation.