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Lithium-ion batteries are the predominant type of rechargeable battery used to power the devices and vehicles that we use as part of our daily lives. Lithium-ion batteries are in used in many locations throughout the Â鶹ԼÅÄ.

The batteries vary in size and configuration depending on their use and application. Larger batteries may be found in Energy Storage Systems (ESS) and vehicles whilst smaller batteries are used in laptops and mobile phones with lots of intermediate applications. Batteries are arranged in series to increase voltage, and in parallel to increase capacity.

Fortunately, fire related incidents with these batteries are infrequent, but the hazards associated with lithium-ion battery cells, which combine flammable electrolyte and significant stored energy, can lead to a fire or explosion from a single-point failure. These hazards need to be understood in order to suitably manage lithium-ion battery risks.

What do they look like ?

There are four basic styles of Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries: cylindrical, button, prismatic, and pouch cells. The cylindrical and button formats are inherently more robust than flat-format prismatic and pouch cells due to the structural properties of their shaped metal casings.

Prismatic and pouch cells are made up of many flat positive and negative electrodes sandwiched together. There are greater possibilities for deformation, short circuit, and irregularity with this arrangement when compared with cylindrical or button cells, that can lead to thermal runaway conditions. Pouch cells have outer surfaces made from flexible materials (e.g. aluminium-plastic composite film) and have the least mechanical resistance of these formats.

What are the hazards?

If a battery cell creates more heat than it can effectively dissipate, it can lead to a rapid uncontrolled release of heat energy, known as ‘thermal runaway’, that can result in a fire or explosion.

This typically develops through the following events:

1. Temperature increase

2. Venting/gassing off of flammable/toxic electrolyte vapours

3. Flare

4. Steady burn

5. Flash fireball

6. Explosion

Ways that thermal runaway can start in batteries are;

• Damage to the battery

• Manufacturing defects

• Overcharging

• Over-discharging

• Short circuiting

• Water ingress

• Incorrect use of charger

• Poor quality battery – cell faults

• Poor condition of battery – cell faults

• Age of battery

Using Lithium-ion batteries safely

• Only use batteries purchased from a reputable manufacturer or supplier.

• Do not leave/store batteries in contact with conductive materials.

• Always inspect batteries for any signs of damage before use and never use damaged or defective batteries.

• Only charge batteries with a suitable OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or compatible charger designed to safely charge the specific battery cells or battery packs in use.

• Do not leave batteries charging in unoccupied locations and disconnect/remove batteries from chargers after charging is complete. Remember e-bikes & e-Scooters must only be charged in

• Handle batteries in well-ventilated areas and only use and store batteries in dry and reasonably cool locations, i.e. avoiding excessive humidity and heat. Avoid placing batteries in direct sunlight.

• Keep battery handling areas free from flammable or combustible materials, and free from sharp objects that may puncture battery cells.

• When not in use, lithium-ion batteries should ideally be kept in a bespoke enclosure such as a proprietary metal battery storage cabinet or fireproof safety bag.

Safe Disposal

• Because of their potential for starting a fire, Lithium-ion batteries should not be disposed of in ordinary waste bins, or the Workplace battery recycling tubs.

• Do not mix Li-ion batteries with other batteries

• Tape the terminals, prior to contacting Workplace for disposal

• Any one who needs to dispose of a Lithium – ion battery, should arrange safe disposal by contacting the

Further Information on disposal is contained in the Managing Waste Batteries guidance document - see Useful Documents