Lithium-ion batteries are generally safe when used and maintained correctly. However, they can pose risks under certain conditions, such as: Overcharging: Overcharging a lithium-ion battery can lead to thermal runaway, a chain reaction that causes the battery to overheat and potentially catch fire or explode.
While there are standards for the overall performance and safety of Lithium-ion batteries, there are as yet no UK standards specifically for their fire safety performance. IEC 62133 sets out requirements and tests for the safety and performance of Lithium-ion batteries in portable electronic devices, including cell phones, laptops and tablets.
To enhance the safety of lithium-ion batteries, manufacturers can employ several strategies: Battery Management Systems (BMS): Implementing advanced BMS in electric vehicles and energy storage systems can monitor battery conditions, including voltage, current, and temperature, to prevent overcharging and thermal runaway.
Thermal Runaway: This is the most severe hazard associated with lithium-ion batteries. If the battery is subjected to excessive heat, overcharging, or short circuiting, it can trigger a cascading chemical reaction that generates heat, gases, and potentially flames. In extreme cases, this can lead to a battery explosion or fire.
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.
For a fire risk assessment to be considered suitable and sufficient it must consider all significant risks of fire. Where lithium-ion batteries are concerned this should cover handling, storage, use and charging, as appropriate.