Lithium-ion battery safety

Lithium-ion battery safety
Snr Sgt Alex OToole

Southbank is one of the most densely populated suburbs in Victoria. The majority of people live in residential towers, some as high as 108 stories, and each apartment will have multiple portable devices such as laptop computers, mobile phones, children’s toys, e-scooters and e-cigarettes. 

Many of these devices may contain rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. They are lightweight, energy dense and long-lasting but can be more volatile than traditional batteries. 

Occasionally, if a lithium-ion battery is improperly charged, handled, stored or disposed of there is a risk of overheating, catching fire or explosion. This also increases the risk of a house fire or personal injury. 

Electric bicycles (e-bikes), electric scooters (e-scooters) and electric mobility (e-mobility) scooters known as “micromobility” devices or “light electric vehicles (LEV)”, have become the vehicle of choice for Southbank residents. LEVs commonly contain lithium-ion batteries too. 

The following safety advice from Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) covers both portable devices and light electric vehicles: 

  • Purchase products from a reputable supplier and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Only use chargers and cords that are originally supplied with that device. Using chargers with incorrect power delivery (voltage and current) can cause damage to the battery or overheating that can lead to fires.
  • Only use batteries that are designed for that device.
  • Check that chargers have the Regulatory Compliance Mark, to show that they meet the relevant Australian Standards.
  • Avoid charging LEV batteries overnight or leaving devices unattended while charging. Once the indicator shows that a device or battery has been fully charged, disconnect it from the charger.
  • Devices should always be charged on non-combustible surfaces.
  • Avoid locations such as couches, beds and carpets.
  • Where possible, LEVs should be stored and charged away from living spaces. Keep them away from any exit doors, escape routes, and other combustible materials. FRV recommend installation of a smoke alarm where LEVs are charged.
  • Only have device repair, battery replacement or upgrades performed by a qualified professional.
  • Never store or leave LEV batteries or devices in areas where they can be exposed to heat or moisture. Do not leave devices in direct sunlight or in parked vehicles where they can quickly heat up. Let batteries cool before recharging.
  • Don’t use LEV batteries or devices that show signs of swelling or bulging, leaking, overheating, or signs of mechanical damage (cracked, dented, punctured, or crushed). Don’t touch leaking or damaged batteries (use gloves) and clean up any spilled material carefully. If safe to do so remove the battery away from anything that can catch fire, preferably outside.

For additional information on battery safety and battery disposal visit: frv.vic.gov.au/battery-safety

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