Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere. They’re in your tools, gadgets, and even in the devices you use every day. But as convenient as they are, these batteries come with risks—especially when they’re damaged, overhandled, or charged incorrectly.
A recent incident in a hospital, where a lithium-ion battery from a workstation on wheels (WOW) caught fire, has brought these risks into sharp focus. The fire led to an evacuation, and upon inspection, other batteries in the same hospital were found to have cracked housing—a clear sign of damage. It’s believed that the batteries were knocked around or dropped while being swapped into recharging cradles, leading to this dangerous situation.
Why Lithium-Ion batteries can be dangerous
Lithium-ion batteries are popular for a reason—they’re powerful, rechargeable, and compact. However, they can also be dangerous if not handled properly. When these batteries overheat, they can catch fire, and once they start burning, the fire is incredibly hard to put out. The smoke from a lithium-ion battery fire is toxic, adding another layer of risk.
So, what causes these batteries to overheat and catch fire? Here are the main culprits:
- Physical damage: Cracked housing or other signs of physical damage can compromise the battery’s safety.
- Incorrect charging equipment: Using chargers that aren’t designed for the specific battery can lead to overheating.
- Overhandling or improper sanitisation: Frequent handling or using the wrong cleaning products can damage the battery over time.
The challenge with lithium-ion battery fires is that they are difficult to extinguish and the smoke they produce can be highly toxic. In settings where evacuating people is challenging, such as hospitals or care facilities, the risks are even higher.
Practical steps to minimise risk
If you’re using lithium-ion batteries in your work, there are some straightforward steps you can take to keep things safe. The goal is to manage these risks proactively so that you can avoid dangerous situations before they happen. Here are some key takeaways:
- Choose the right location: Keep lithium-ion batteries away from areas where a fire could put people at risk. For instance, in places where people can’t be evacuated quickly, it’s better to use devices that are mains-powered. Also, avoid storing or charging battery packs in offices or spaces where people spend a lot of time.
- Use alternatives where possible: If there are safer battery options available, consider making the switch. Some newer battery technologies are less likely to overheat and catch fire.
- Upgrade your tech: Consider investing in smart chargers or software upgrades that monitor the health of your lithium-ion batteries. These systems can automatically disconnect the power if something goes wrong, preventing a minor issue from turning into a big problem.
- Handle with care: Reducing the amount of handling your batteries go through can help prevent damage. For example, retrofitting existing equipment so that batteries don’t need to be swapped out as often can be a smart move.
- Dedicated storage and charging areas: Store and charge your batteries in a dedicated area that’s separated from where people are. Ideally, this area should be fire-resistant and equipped with smoke alarms and sprinklers.
- Regular inspections: Develop a system to inspect your batteries regularly. Look for signs of damage like cracked housing or broken power buttons. Make sure that only trained and knowledgeable individuals are handling battery inspections and replacements.
- Proper training: Ensure that anyone handling lithium-ion batteries is trained on the do’s and don’ts. For example, it’s important to know not to spray water or disinfectant on the batteries, and to avoid storing these products near charging stations.
- Emergency plans: Have a clear plan in place in case a battery does catch fire. Make sure everyone knows the evacuation routes and understands that trying to put out a battery fire without the proper equipment is dangerous.
The legal side of things
It’s not just about safety—it’s also about staying on the right side of the law. Employers have a duty under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 to provide a safe working environment. This means making sure that your team has the right training and that everyone knows how to work with lithium-ion batteries safely.
Final thoughts
Lithium-ion batteries are incredibly useful, but they require careful handling to ensure safety. The recent hospital incident serves as a reminder that we can’t take these batteries for granted. By following the steps outlined above, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries in your workplace.
Remember, it’s not just about keeping your equipment running smoothly—it’s about keeping everyone safe. Take the time to review how you’re using, storing, and charging these batteries, and make the necessary changes to minimise risks. Your safety, and the safety of those around you, depends on it.
