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Prevention and safety of lithium fire
Learn how to safely handle lithium batteries and minimize the risk of fire incidents. Improve the safety of your work environment and protect your property with our advice and specialized solutions.
Safe handling of lithium batteries
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Correct storage: Store lithium batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Make sure they are not exposed to moisture or water.
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Avoid damage: Ensure that lithium batteries are not damaged by impact, dropping or bending. Damaged batteries may leak or ignite.
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Use original chargers: Use only chargers approved by the battery manufacturer. Avoid cheap or unknown brands as they may not meet the required safety standards.
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Follow charging instructions: Follow the charging instructions supplied with the battery and device. Overcharging may result in overheating and fire hazard.
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Do not leave batteries unattended while charging: Supervise batteries during charging and do not leave them unattended. Remove batteries from the charger immediately when they are fully charged.
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Be careful with damaged batteries: If a battery is damaged, such as swollen, leaking or damaged, do not use it or try to charge it. Take damaged batteries to a special battery collection site.
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Recycle old batteries: Do not dispose of lithium batteries with your household waste. Take them to an authorized collection point for recycling to prevent environmental damage.
Prevention of lithium fire
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Use of lithium safety containers: Store lithium batteries in specially designed containers equipped with fireproof materials and safety devices to prevent fire incidents.
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Follow storage guidelines: Adhere to lithium battery storage regulations, as set forth in guidelines such as PGS 37, to minimize risks.
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Avoid damage: Ensure that lithium batteries are not exposed to physical damage or short circuit, which can cause fire.
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Check for defects: Regularly inspect lithium batteries for signs of defects, such as leakage or deformation, and replace as necessary.
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Safe charging: Use only approved charging equipment and follow recommended charging procedures to prevent overheating and fire while charging lithium batteries.
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Storage in a ventilated area: Store lithium batteries in a well-ventilated area to reduce the possibility of accumulation of flammable gases.
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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 respond in case of an emergency.
What to do in case of lithium fire
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Safety First: Make sure that your own and others' safety is always a priority. Avoid direct contact with burning lithium batteries and the smoke emanating from them.
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Call emergency services: Immediately call the emergency number (e.g., 112 in Europe) and report the fire. As accurately as possible, give the location and describe the situation.
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Use fire extinguisher: If the fire is small and does not compromise your safety, try to extinguish the fire with an appropriate fire extinguisher. Preferably use an extinguisher suitable for extinguishing lithium fires, such as a dry powder extinguisher.
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Evacuation: If the fire spreads rapidly or there is toxic smoke, evacuate the area immediately and get yourself and others to safety.
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Keep your distance: If possible, keep 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.
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Provide information: If necessary, provide information to emergency services about the type of lithium batteries involved in the fire and any special risks associated with them.
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Follow emergency plan: If you work in an environment where lithium batteries are regularly handled, follow the emergency plan and safety procedures established to respond to fire incidents.
