Lithium-ion Batteries Growing Fire Risk in 2024

The UK has seen a notable rise in lithium-ion battery fires recently, a concerning trend, with commercial insurer, QBE, reporting there were 46% more of these types of fire in 2023.

The increase is linked to the increasing prevalence of these batteries in everyday devices. As more electric vehicles, smartphones, laptops and other gadgets rely on lithium-ion technology, the risk of fires has inevitably grown, with incidents often stemming from battery malfunctions, damage, or improper charging practices – all leading to overheating and combustion.

This surge in fires has prompted calls for stricter safety regulations and better public awareness on the proper handling and disposal of lithium-ion batteries.

Where are these batteries found?

Mobile phones

Laptops

Tablets

Electric bikes (e-bikes)

Electric scooters (e-scooters)

Power tools

Vapes (electronic cigarettes)

Digital cameras

Portable power banks

Smartwatches and fitness trackers

E-bike and scooter fires

A recent BBC report stated that e-bikes and e-scooters continue to be the fastest growing fire risk in the capital, according to the London Fire Brigade (LFB).

The LFB reported a 78% increase in e-bike fires in 2023 compared to 2022, with 155 e-bike fires and 28 e-scooter fires recorded last year - one every two days, on average. These fires resulted in three fatalities and around 60 injuries.

One such example, in February of 2024, was a fire caused by a lithium-ion battery failure in an e-bike in a flat in Whitechapel, leading to firefighters rescuing a man dangling precariously from a third-floor window.

The LFB subsequently expressed their concern regarding failing lithium-ion batteries and advised against both buying fake or incompatible batteries and components online, and storing an e-bike in a hallway, which can catastrophically block a resident’s exit in case of fire.

They have also urged e-bike users to inspect their batteries, following the classification of battery packs as ‘dangerous’ products by the UK's regulatory body.

Thermal runways

A huge fire in a self-storage unit in Surrey was caused by a faulty lithium-ion battery in May 2023.

Access Self Storage in Byfleet was set ablaze, with plumes of smoke visible for miles, following a defective lithium-ion battery catching fire on the 2^nd floor.

The fire spread rapidly, creating a thermal runway – an uncontrollable, self-healing state particular, but not exclusive to, lithium-ion batteries – which extended to other batteries stored on the same floor. This led to unpredictable behaviour from within the huge blaze and a fire that continued to burn for more than 30 hours.

Bin lorry fires

Also becoming more prevalent are fires in bin lorries, as lithium-ion batteries disposed of in regular household waste catch fire once inside the lorry, after being crushed or damaged on entry. This leads to explosions and fires, according to the Greater Cambridge Shared Waste partnership (GCSW).

Since January 2024, lithium-ion batteries from mobile phones, vapes and power packs for electric bikes or scooters have caused fires in seven lorries.

The GCSW advises that small household batteries should be placed in a plastic bag, tied shut and left separate on top of household wheelie bin. Vapes and larger batteries should be taken to a household recycling centre.

Residents in flats with communal bins should also take their batteries to a recycling centre or local collection point.

Scenarios that can lead to lithium-ion battery fire

Overcharging            Charging beyond a battery’s limits

Physical damage      Pierced, dropped or struck batteries

Short circuiting        Defects and damage leading to short circuits and heat

Bad storage               Hot or poorer ventilated areas leading to thermal runway

How to mitigate against lithium-ion battery fires

• Use certified chargers and accessories

Only use chargers and accessories that are certified by the device manufacturer. Avoid cheap, third-party chargers that may not meet safety standards.

• Proper charging practices

Do not overcharge or over-discharge the battery.

Avoid charging devices overnight or unattended.

• Regular inspection

Periodically inspect batteries for signs of damage, swelling or leakage.

Replace batteries showing any signs of wear or damage immediately.

• Safe storage

Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials.

Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, both hot and cold.

Think about where you store your e-bike or scooter.

• Avoid physical damage

Do not puncture, crush or otherwise damage the battery.

Handle batteries with care to avoid dropping or impact.

• Proper disposal and recycling

Follow local regulations for battery disposal and recycling.

Use designated recycling programmes or drop-off points for old or damaged batteries.

• Educate and inform

Stay informed about the latest safety guidelines for lithium-ion batteries.

Educate family members and co-workers on safe handling practices.

• Use fire-resistant containers

Store spare batteries in fire-resistant containers.

Consider using specially designed battery storage cases.

• Employ Battery Management Systems (BMS)

Use devices equipped with advanced battery management systems that monitor and regulate battery performance.

• Emergency preparedness

Have a fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires (Class C) nearby.

Know the proper steps to take in case of a battery fire, such as using a fire blanket or calling emergency services.

• Follow manufacturer guidelines

Adhere to the manufacturer's instructions for charging, usage and storage.

Regularly check for product recalls or safety notices related to your devices.

By implementing these measures, the risk of lithium-ion battery fires can be significantly reduced, ensuring safer usage of these ubiquitous power sources.

Want to learn more? Contact Ascend today on 01245 449060 or email info@ascendbroking.co.uk.

Other blogs which may be of interest:

How to protect against fire from lithium batteries

Managing fire risks in the manufacturing industry

Any questions? Please don’t hesitate to contact one of our team.

Matthew.Collins@ascendbroking.co.uk  | Office: 01245 449060