Batteries

What are the risks of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries?

Lithium-ion batteries can pose health and safety risks that need to be managed effectively.

• Fire and explosion hazard

Lithium-ion batteries have the potential to catch fire or explode if not handled, stored, or charged correctly. This can result in property damage, injuries, and even fatalities.

• Chemical exposure

Lithium-ion batteries contain chemicals and materials that can be harmful if inhaled or exposed to skin or eyes.

• Electrical hazard

Lithium-ion batteries can deliver a significant amount of electrical energy, which can pose a shock hazard if mishandled.

• Storage and handling risks

Improper storage and handling of lithium-ion batteries can lead to physical damage, short circuits, and other safety hazards.

How to charge safely?

Do:

• Always use the charger that came with the device when new (even if a charger fits, that doesn’t mean it’s compatible or safe. Refer to the manufacturer’s specifications to check if the charger is correct.)
• Always charge devices, especially e-scooters and e-bikes, in a well-ventilated area and on a non-combustible surface (like concrete or ceramic tiles).
• Always let batteries cool down after use and before recharging.
• Charge devices when you are home.
• Charge on hard surfaces like tiles and concrete.
• Have working smoke alarms.
• Check that the charger has the Regulatory Compliance Mark to show it has met the relevant Australian Standards.

Don't:

• Don’t leave batteries or devices unattended while charging, and once the battery is fully charged, disconnect it from the charger.
• Don’t charge e-scooters or e-bikes in areas where they can stop you from getting to an exit.
• Don’t store batteries or devices in areas where they may be exposed to heat or moisture.
• Don’t charge batteries or devices on or near soft furnishings like carpets.
• Don’t charge or use a battery or device that is hot or showing signs of damage (swelling, bulging, cracking, leaking, making sounds like popping or hissing, or smelling unusual).

What to do if an emergency or fire occurs?

Call Triple Zero (000) immediately if fire or smoke is evident.

Fire or smoke
If lithium-ion rechargeable device is on fire, or smoke is coming from it:

• Evacuate to a safe area and then call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
• Don’t touch a damaged battery or device – severe burns could occur.
• Don’t breathe the air around the battery or device – it will likely contain toxic vapours

No fire or smoke
If lithium-ion rechargeable device is creating an unusual smell or sound, developing heat, changing shape or behaving abnormally, and it is safe to do so:

• Disconnect the device from the power supply.
• Move the device outside away from any other combustible items.
• Submerge the battery in a bucket filled with cool water to prevent ignition or further ignitions, until emergency assistance arrives.

Helpful information:

 

 

• Lithium-ion battery charging cabinet
• Safety Alert No.5 Lithium-ion battery-operated equipment
• SafeWork NSW – Lithium-ion batteries
• Queensland Fire Department – Lithium-ion battery safety 
• Queensland Government Electrical safety – Lithium-ion battery-operated equipment (including electrical scooters)