Lithium Ion Battery Fire: Is Your Workplace At Risk Of This Surging Danger?

According to a 2018 U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Report, 25,000 fire incidents from failing lithium-ion batteries were recorded over five years. That's an average of 5,000 battery fires per year, and The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates the direct and indirect costs for USA commercial business fires to be $15.9 billion, annually. Is your business at risk of these unprecedented losses due to fire from lithium-ion batteries?

Lithium-ion batteries have transformed our everyday lives, and have made wireless portable electronics, such as laptops and smartphones, a reality. But with such a high demand comes potential unseen hazards. Despite being a relatively new technology, they have a high likelihood of igniting if damaged. It is projected that between 2022 and 2030, the global demand for lithium-ion batteries will increase almost seven-fold, reaching 4.7 terawatt-hours in 2030. Don't put your workplace safety at risk by neglecting the risks using them presents.

Charging lithium-ion batteries might seem straightforward, but there's a lot going on behind the scenes that makes them surprisingly vulnerable during this process. Any misstep, like leaving them plugged in for too long, short circuits, overheating or using the wrong charger, could spark trouble.

These batteries can be a bit like ticking time bombs waiting to overheat if not handled with care. It's why sticking to the rules of charging and investing in quality charging equipment is more crucial than ever.

It's important to understand the fire risks associated with these batteries, how to safely store them, and appropriate safety tips and measures to prevent any potential damage. According to statistics, lithium-ion fires can cost businesses millions of dollars in losses, not to mention the potential threat to lives and the environment.

One incident of a lithium-ion battery fire can cause a chain reaction of catastrophic consequences, including:

• Rapid combustion that can quickly spread and cause extensive damage to your facility, equipment, and inventory.
• Toxic fumes and the release of hazardous substances that can pose a serious risk to the health of your employees.
• Increased downtime and disruption to your operations, resulting in lost productivity and revenue.
• Lengthy insurance processes and the potential for increased premiums, adding unnecessary financial burden to your business.

Security cameras at a local business caught the moment that a lithium-ion battery thermal runaway fire started overnight while the battery was being charged. The losses for the business are estimated to be approximately $3 million.

Understanding Lithium-Ion Battery Fires: 4 Critical Differences

1. Explosive Nature: Unique gas combinations and pressure build-up make lithium-ion batteries prone to explosive fires, spreading rapidly and posing severe injury risks.
2. Toxic Emissions: Burning lithium-ion batteries release harmful fumes and gasses, leading to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and environmental damage.
3. Challenging to Extinguish: These batteries generate their own heat, making them difficult to put out. They can reignite unexpectedly and even melt concrete and steel.
4. Limited Warning Signs: Enclosed design masks potential failures, while fast-spreading fires hinder containment efforts.

Lithium Ion Battery Safety Cabinets 

Introducing the Lithium-Ion Battery Charging Safety Cabinet by Justrite: the ultimate solution to protect your workplace from the dangers of lithium-ion battery fires. With advanced features and innovative technology, our safety cabinet offers protection against the risks associated with these batteries.

Our Lithium-Ion Battery Charging Safety Cabinet is meticulously designed with our innovative ChargeGuard™ technology, offering multiple layers of advanced shielding. Here's how our cabinet provides ideal fire safety when storing li-ion batteries:

• Enhanced Safety: Constructed with sturdy 18-gauge steel and double-walled sides, top, and bottom, our cabinet creates a robust barrier against potential hazards.
• Efficient and Reliable Charging: Our cabinet allows for simultaneous charging of multiple batteries up to a maximum of 2kWh, ensuring quick and efficient charging processes, reducing downtime, and increasing productivity.
• Secure and Convenient: Lightweight and benchtop design allows for easy relocation, while lockable doors provide controlled access to lithium-ion batteries, preventing theft and unauthorized handling.
• Optimized Temperature Control: Equipped with an axial fan and sliding doors, our cabinet regulates internal temperature and closes the fan opening if it exceeds 135°F, adding an extra layer of protection and enhancing overall safety.
• Durable and Long-lasting: Crafted with premium materials, including a three-point stainless steel bullet latching system and continuous piano hinges, our cabinet offers superior resistance to heat, corrosion, and wear.
• Easy Installation and Use: The Lithium-Ion Battery Charging Safety Cabinet comes with a grounding attachment, leveling feet, and a fixed shelf with a safe load capacity of 65 lbs. The included power strip provides a controlled space for charging lithium-ion batteries.

Click here to learn more and protect your workplace. Don't wait until it's too late to safeguard your assets and create a secure working environment.