Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices we use every day, including smartphones, laptops, vapes, e-bikes, and e-scooters.
Yet lithium-ion batteries carry a strong fire risk. And some people worry that lithium batteries may catch fire even when not in use.
In this post we’ll assess whether there are any grounds to this fear, and discuss ways you can reduce the risk of lithium battery fires.
If you’re concerned about the risks of lithium battery fires, we can help you ensure you have all the cover you need at the best price. For more information, contact us on 020 8290 9080 or email business@anthonyjones.com.
When Lithium Battery Fires Go Wrong
The British Safety Council says that lithium battery fires are relatively rare. It’s only in the event of a malfunction that they can present a serious fire risk.
A charged lithium battery contains a lot of energy. And if the battery’s exposed to high temperatures, or if it’s degraded or damaged, then heat and pressure can build up inside.
If the heat and pressure in the battery gets too high, it can result in thermal runaway.
What is Thermal Runaway?
This is a chemical reaction that involves rapid heating that can cause the battery to ignite. And when it ignites, a lithium battery can burn at temperatures between 700°C and 1,000°C.
A burning lithium battery can also release harmful gases which are themselves flammable. This is why lithium battery fires can spread rapidly.
Can Lithium Batteries Catch Fire When Not In Use?
If a lithium battery succumbs to thermal runaway, it can ignite spontaneously. But can this fire start when the battery’s not in use? No. A lithium battery will not catch fire if it’s not in use – unless the battery is in some way damaged, or exposed to excessive heat.
If you take care of your lithium batteries, and if you follow the manufacturer’s usage guidelines, then the battery is extremely unlikely to catch fire when not in use.
How to Prevent Lithium Battery Fires
- Do not overcharge any equipment that uses lithium batteries. Unplug them when they’re not charging, or not in use.
- Look out for signs of damage or degradation, including dents, scratches, bulges, or swelling.
- Also look out for any signs of malfunction. Is the device taking too long to charge, or does it lose charge too quickly? Does it become unusually hot when in use?
- Do not store any equipment that uses lithium batteries anywhere that might get excessively hot, or excessively cold. Some seem to think that it’s best practice to store lithium batteries in the fridge. But cold temperatures can affect the chemicals within a lithium battery, which could result in failure, and fire, once the battery returns to room temperature.
- Store any e-scooters or e-bikes outside, out of direct sunlight, and away from any areas that could cause fire outbreaks to spread – such as bins or storage areas.
- Take care when disposing of batteries. Read our best practice guidelines for battery disposal and recycling here.
Does Your Business Insurance Cover You For Lithium Battery Fires?
Insurers are aware of the growing risk of lithium battery fires. As such, they’re becoming more descriptive and prescriptive of how businesses should store, manage, and dispose of batteries in the workplace.
It’s vital that you follow and instructions to the letter. Otherwise, in the event of a fire, you may find that you are not covered for the damage.
At Anthony Jones, we can help you ensure that you are fully covered for all of the risks your business faces. We can also help you ensure that you follow all of the appropriate risk management steps outlined in your business insurance policy. For more information, contact us on 020 8290 9080 or email business@anthonyjones.com.
