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Prevention and safety of lithium fire

Learn how to handle lithium batteries safely and minimize the risk of fire incidents. Enhance the safety of your work environment and protect your property with our advice and specialized solutions.

Safe handling of lithium batteries.

  1. Correct storage: Store lithium batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Ensure they are not exposed to moisture or water.
     

  2. Avoid damage: Ensure that lithium batteries are not damaged by impacts, drops, or bending. Damaged batteries can leak or catch fire.
     

  3. Use original chargers: Only use chargers that are approved by the battery manufacturer. Avoid cheap or unknown brands, as these may not meet the required safety standards.
     

  4. Follow charging instructions: Follow the charging instructions provided with the battery and the device. Overcharging can lead to overheating and a fire hazard.
     

  5. Do not leave batteries unattended while charging: Supervise batteries while they are charging and do not leave them unattended. Remove the batteries from the charger immediately when they are fully charged.
     

  6. Be cautious with damaged batteries: If a battery is damaged, such as swollen, leaking, or physically damaged, do not use or attempt to charge it. Take damaged batteries to a specialized battery collection point.
     

  7. Recycle old batteries: Do not dispose of lithium batteries with household waste. Take them to an authorized collection point for recycling to prevent environmental damage.

Emergency response team geared up in fire-resistant suits and breathing apparatus for lithium fire safety operation
Prevention of lithium fire
Specialized lithium safety containers designed for secure storage and charging of lithium batteries

  1. Use of lithium safety containers: Store lithium batteries in specially designed containers that are equipped with fire-resistant materials and safety features to prevent fire incidents.
     

  2. Follow storage guidelines: Adhere to the regulations for storing lithium batteries, such as those laid out in guidelines like PGS 37, to minimize risks.
     

  3. Avoid damage: Ensure that lithium batteries are not exposed to physical damage or short-circuiting, which can cause a fire.
     

  4. Check for defects: Regularly inspect lithium batteries for signs of defects, such as leakage or deformation, and replace them if necessary.
     

  5. Safe charging: Only use approved charging equipment and follow recommended charging procedures to prevent overheating and fire while charging lithium batteries.
     

  6. Storage in a ventilated area: Store lithium batteries in a well-ventilated area to reduce the chance of accumulation of flammable gases.
     

  7. Training and awareness: Ensure that personnel working with lithium batteries are aware of the risks and know the proper procedures to prevent fire incidents and to respond in case of an emergency.

What to do in case of a lithium fire

  1. Safety first: Ensure that your own safety and that of others always has priority. Avoid direct contact with the burning lithium batteries and the smoke they emit.
     

  2. Call emergency services: Call the emergency number immediately (for example, 112 in Europe) and report the fire. Provide the location as precisely as possible and describe the situation.
     

  3. Use a fire extinguisher: If the fire is small and your safety is not at risk, try to extinguish the fire with a suitable fire extinguisher. Preferably use an extinguishing agent that is suitable for lithium fires, such as a dry powder extinguisher.
     

  4. Evacuation: If the fire spreads quickly or if there is toxic smoke development, evacuate the area immediately and ensure your and others' safety.
     

  5. Keep distance: If possible, maintain a safe distance from the burning lithium batteries and smoke. Avoid inhaling the smoke and do not attempt to extinguish the fire if you do not have the proper equipment or training.
     

  6. Provide information: If necessary, provide information to the emergency services about the type of lithium batteries involved in the fire and any special risks associated with them.
     

  7. Follow emergency plan: If you work in an environment where lithium batteries are regularly used, follow the emergency plan and safety procedures that have been established to respond to fire incidents.

Firefighters using special extinguishing agents to combat a lithium fire
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