Lithium-ion batteries are becoming dominant in Australia and around the world as a rechargeable battery technology. Global demand for lithium batteries is expected to reach up to $151 billion by 2030. In Australia, nine out of ten people have a smartphone with a lithium battery.
Lithium batteries power many of the devices in your home and business. They are commonly found in laptops, phones, keyboards, tablets, tools, forklifts, cameras, security systems, e-bikes, e-scooters, golf carts, drones and to store energy from solar or wind.
Lithium batteries are popular because they last a long time, are versatile, and have high energy density. While they have many benefits, it is important to manage potential safety risks to ensure smooth business operations.
We explain in detail how the chemistry of lithium batteries leads to risks in the extended version of this blog post.
Risk Assessment for Businesses Using Lithium Batteries
One risk to consider is if your business premises were damaged due to a fire caused by an electric car battery in the basement. That may trigger either the car owner’s insurance policy and/or the building owners. These sorts of incidents are still being tested in court.
Check if your premises is equipped with fire extinguishers specific to dealing with lithium battery fires. Are you storing lithium batteries safely (see below)?
Avoid handling, transporting or storing lithium batteries in excessive heat, direct sunlight, near open flames, smoking, poor ventilation, overcharging, or deep discharging (where you’ve exhausted the battery’s capacity).
Implementing Risk Management Strategies
The CSIRO advices against recharging a product in direct sunlight or in hot weather. As well, be mindful if you hear a hissing noise, notice liquid escaping from the battery or if components are beginning to melt. They’re all early warnings of thermal runaway. More useful tips include:
- Store the batteries in a cool, dry place away from flammables
- Unplug chargers when using
- Allow batteries to cool before they are returned to use
- Avoid overloading circuits such as via one power point, and
- Dispose of spent or damaged batteries appropriately
Environmental Considerations and Disposal
Ensure proper disposal of batteries that are damaged, such as those affected by fire, overheating, swelling, bulging, leaking, cracking, denting, or puncturing, or have been exposed to water or another liquid. When disposing of such batteries, wear PPR, place the battery (if small) in a clear plastic bag or container and drop off at your nearest household hazardous waste collection point. Find out more here.
For more information about Lithium Safety Measures for Your SME CLICK HERE, and talk to us today about the right-fit insurance for your business circumstances.