KNOWLEDGE BASE · PGS 37
Storing lithium
according to PGS 37
Sales, rentals, consulting, and maintenance — fully compliant with both PGS37-1 and PGS37-2. Your one-stop partner for lithium-ion storage, from initial assessment to certification.
PGS 37-2 & PGS 37-1
In-house technicians
24/7 Salvage
IN SHORT
PGS37-1 — Energy Storage Systems (EOS), in use
PGS37-2 — Storage of lithium batteries
Adopted Dec. 2023 — enshrined in law in 2027
Threshold PGS37-2: 1,000 kg (new) / 333 kg (damaged)
Fire resistance: min. 60 min (120 min above 12 m)
IN 30 SECONDS
All About PGS37
PGS37-1 regulates energy storage systems (ESS)—neighborhood batteries, battery units, and ESS at wind and solar farms.
PGS37-2 regulates the storage of loose lithium batteries as well as batteries in products (e-bikes, cordless tools, EV components).
PGS37-2 applies to new batteries weighing 1,000 kg or more, or 333 kg for damaged batteries—and in fact, always applies to damaged energy storage devices.
A PGS37-compliant facility has a fire resistance rating of at least 60 minutes (120 minutes at heights above 12 meters) and features a liquid-tight floor.
PGS37 has been in effect since December 2023 ; it is expected to be codified in the Bal in 2027.
Insurers and regulatory authorities already use PGS37 as the standard for licensing and insurance policies.
Lithium Safety Containers supplies, rents, advises, and maintains—one partner for the entire process.
DEFINITION
What are lithium-based
energy storage devices?
Lithium-based energy storage devices are cells, batteries, and rechargeable batteries in which lithium is the active material—usually in the form of lithium-ion (rechargeable) or lithium metal (non-rechargeable). They contain a liquid or gel electrolyte and are sensitive to mechanical damage, overheating, and overcharging.
● Smartphones, laptops, and tablets
● Electric cars and light-duty vehicles
● Robot vacuums and drones
● E-bikes, mobility scooters, and e-scooters
● Cordless tools and garden equipment
● Energy Storage Systems (ESS)
Important:Both loose batteries and batteries incorporated into products count toward the PGS37-2 threshold.
RISKS
Why secure
storage is crucial
Lithium-ion batteries are reliable under normal conditions, but if a malfunction occurs, a process can develop that spreads rapidly: thermal runaway. That is why PGS37 imposes strict storage requirements.
01
Overheating
A cell can exceed its critical temperature due to overcharging, a short circuit, or mechanical damage.
02
Domino effect
Neighboring cells overheat; gases and heat build up rapidly.
03
Fire & Explosion
Temperatures rise to over 600 °C, releasing toxic pyrolysis gases.
Causes
● Overcharging or deep discharge
● Storage temperature too high or too low
● Mechanical damage
● Manufacturing defects / internal short circuit
● Aging and cell drift
Consequences
● Intense fire, >600 °C
● Explosion caused by gas buildup
● Toxic pyrolysis gases (HF)
● Corrosive, environmentally harmful firefighting water
● Injuries to staff & damage to the building
IMPORTANT
A lithium-ion fire generates its own oxygen.
Smothering fire suppression methods (CO2 foam) are ineffective. Compartmentalization and cooling are crucial.