Why Lithium-Ion Batteries Should Be on Your Risk Radar

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) increasingly power small devices such as tablets, cellphones, handheld power tools, vapes, and e-scooters, as well as large equipment like golf carts, data centers, and electric buses. LIBs are powerful and efficient, but they pose safety risks, especially fire.

What’s Different about Lithium-Ion Battery Fires?

Fires often result from thermal runaway, a chain reaction triggered by overheating due to damage, misuse, or extreme conditions. When a battery fails, it can release toxic gases, catch fire, produce intense flames, or explode.

If a battery catches fire, it can reignite unless it is thoroughly cooled. Firefighters often focus on containing the fire and letting it burn out rather than extinguishing it.

Common Causes

• Overcharging: Charging generates heat, which can cause overheating.
• Physical damage: Cracks or punctures can create short circuits inside the battery.
• Manufacturing defects: Flaws like misaligned parts or impurities can cause failure.
• Temperature: Extreme heat can destabilize the battery and cause fires.
• Improper disposal: Throwing batteries in with regular trash can lead to damage and fire.

Safety Tips

• Develop written safety protocols. Ensure staff who use lithium battery-powered vehicles or equipment are trained on safety protocols. You should also make sure your emergency operations plan hazardous materials annex addresses the risks associated with lithium batteries. Practice your plan with drills and exercises.
• Collaborate with first responders. Consult your environmental, health, & safety department as well as your local fire officials, fire department, or county emergency manager before installing large equipment such as electric vehicle charging stations and grid storage backup power supplies. Ask whether local requirements apply.  
• Control access. Only authorized employees who have been properly trained should be allowed to operate or work on equipment. Try to include vendor-delivered training in your contracts. 
• Charge properly. Use chargers designed for the specific battery type, avoid overcharging, and store lithium batteries at around 40-60% charge. Storing them fully charged or completely discharged can reduce their lifespan.
• Store safely. Where you store batteries and what you store them in can impact lifespan and safety:
  • Choose a cool, dry place.
  • Avoid extreme temperatures. Ideal storage temperatures are between 68°F to 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
  • Steer clear of flammable materials and potential ignition sources such as direct sunlight, heat-producing equipment, oxidizers, and compressed gas. Keep fire extinguishers nearby.
  • Use appropriate storage containers, such as battery cases or original packaging.
• Inspect batteries. Regularly check batteries, including stored batteries, for signs of damage, swelling, or leaks. Replace deteriorating batteries.
• Ventilate adequately. Ventilation helps prevent harmful gas build-up.
• Dispose of batteries properly: Follow local battery disposal guidelines to prevent damage and fires. Proper recycling is the recommended option, but your choices may be limited. That’s because many disposal and recycling facilities will not accept lithium-ion batteries. Your vendor might also offer a recycling/disposal program.

Regulations

Strict regulations dictate the transportation of lithium-ion batteries and the equipment they power.

1. Department of Transportation (DOT): The DOT regulates the transportation of lithium batteries under 49 CFR 173.185. This includes requirements for packaging, labeling, and handling to prevent short circuits and accidental activation.
2. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): The EPA classifies end-of-life lithium-ion batteries as hazardous waste under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). They can be managed under the more streamlined Universal Waste regulations, which simplify the requirements for storage, transportation, and recycling.
3. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): OSHA provides guidelines for the safe handling and storage of lithium batteries to prevent workplace hazards.

Lithium-ion batteries are key to modern technology, but understanding their risks and proper use is essential. High-profile incidents have damaged buildings and vehicles. Schools also must consider the limited disposal and recycling options. By following these tips, you can enjoy their benefits of lithium-ion batteries while protecting staff and students.

Editor's note: This article was originally published in May 2024. It has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.