Lithium-ion batteries have become an essential part of modern workplaces. They power everything from cordless tools and communication devices to cameras, electric vehicles and a wide range of portable equipment.
While these batteries deliver excellent performance in compact, lightweight units, they also present fire risks that organisations cannot afford to overlook.
Understanding the Risks
Lithium-ion batteries have a very high energy density, enabling them to store significant amounts of energy in a relatively small space. However, if a battery becomes damaged, is incorrectly charged, overheats or develops an internal fault, it can enter a process known as thermal runaway.
Thermal runaway can cause a battery to ignite rapidly, producing intense heat, toxic gases and fires that are extremely difficult to extinguish. The consequences can be severe, putting employees at risk, damaging buildings and equipment, disrupting business operations and leading to costly downtime.
Importantly, these risks exist regardless of battery size. Even smaller batteries used in handheld devices can present a serious hazard if not stored or handled correctly.
Safe Storage and Handling
Although there are currently no specific legal requirements governing the storage of lithium-ion batteries, employers have a duty to assess and manage the risks associated with their use.
A workplace risk assessment should consider:
- Where batteries are stored and charged.
- Whether charging areas are separated from flammable materials.
- Protection against damaged or defective batteries.
- Emergency procedures in the event of a battery fire.
- Appropriate storage solutions for both charging and non-charging batteries.
Taking these precautions can significantly reduce the likelihood and impact of a battery-related fire.
Fire-Protected Storage Solutions
MSC partners with Asecos, manufacturers of the ION-LINE range of lithium-ion safety cabinets, designed specifically for the safe storage and charging of lithium-ion batteries.
These cabinets are independently certified and provide up to 90 minutes of fire resistance, both from the inside out and from the outside in. This dual protection helps safeguard employees and facilities if a battery fire originates within the cabinet, while also protecting stored batteries from external fires that could otherwise trigger further incidents.
You can see the cabinets’ fire protection performance demonstrated in this video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBMMK0zPd7I
Asecos offers dedicated cabinets for both battery storage and battery charging, allowing organisations to select the most appropriate solution for their application.
View the full range of lithium-ion safety cabinets here:
https://www.asecos.com/lithium-ion-safety-cabinets.html
Talk to MSC
If your organisation uses lithium-ion batteries, ensuring they are stored and charged safely should form part of your overall fire safety strategy.
Contact MSC to learn more about the Asecos ION-LINE range and how these certified storage and charging cabinets can help protect your people, property and business.