TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Introduction
- Why Lithium-Ion Batteries Are Different
- Understanding Thermal Runaway
- Why Battery Fires Are Increasing
- Industries Most at Risk
- Irish Fire Safety Legislation
- Safe Battery Storage
- Safe Battery Charging
- Damaged Batteries
- Emergency Planning
- Fire Blankets
- Fire Extinguishers
- Battery Cabinets
- Walk-In Storage Containers
- Staff Training
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
INTRODUCTION
Lithium-Ion Batteries Are Transforming Workplaces – But They Bring New Fire Risks
From warehouses and manufacturing plants to offices, hospitals and apartment developments, lithium-ion batteries have become an essential part of modern life. They power everything from laptops and mobile phones to forklifts, e-bikes, power tools, electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems.
Their popularity is easy to understand. Lithium-ion batteries offer high energy density, fast charging, long service life and low maintenance requirements. As businesses continue to electrify equipment and adopt cleaner technologies, the number of batteries in the workplace is increasing rapidly.
However, alongside these benefits comes a fire risk that many organisations still underestimate.
Unlike conventional fires, lithium-ion battery fires behave differently. They can ignite without warning, burn at extremely high temperatures, release toxic gases and reignite even after appearing to be extinguished. Once a battery enters thermal runaway, the fire can escalate in seconds, creating significant risks for employees, emergency responders, buildings and business continuity.
In recent years, lithium-ion battery incidents have become more common across Europe and Ireland. Fires involving e-bikes, e-scooters, warehouse equipment, battery energy storage systems and portable electronics have highlighted the need for businesses to review how batteries are stored, charged and managed.
For employers, facilities managers and health and safety professionals, understanding these risks is no longer optional. It is a key part of protecting people, maintaining compliance and safeguarding business operations.
This guide explains:
- How lithium-ion batteries work
- What causes battery fires
- The science behind thermal runaway
- Best practice for charging and storage
- Irish legal responsibilities
- Practical ways to reduce fire risk
- How Fireguard can help your organisation build a safer workplace
Whether your business has a handful of cordless power tools or a dedicated battery charging facility, the principles in this guide will help you reduce risk and prepare for the future.
2. Why Lithium-Ion Batteries Are Different
Lithium-ion batteries have transformed the way we live and work. Their ability to store large amounts of energy in a compact, lightweight package has made them the preferred choice for powering everything from smartphones and laptops to forklifts, warehouse equipment, electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems.
Unlike traditional lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion batteries provide:
- Higher energy density
- Faster charging times
- Longer service life
- Reduced maintenance
- Greater efficiency
- Lower overall weight
These advantages have accelerated their adoption across virtually every industry.
However, these same characteristics also create unique fire safety challenges.
A lithium-ion battery stores a significant amount of energy within a relatively small space. If that energy is released uncontrollably due to damage, overheating, manufacturing defects or improper charging, the battery can enter a dangerous process known as thermal runaway.
Unlike conventional fires, lithium-ion battery fires generate their own oxygen during decomposition, making them significantly more difficult to control using traditional firefighting methods. They can also reignite hours—or even days—after the initial fire appears to have been extinguished.
For businesses, this means conventional fire safety measures alone may no longer be enough.
The Growing Use of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Many organisations underestimate just how many lithium-ion batteries they have on site.
They can be found in:
- Electric forklifts
- Pallet trucks
- Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)
- Power tools
- Warehouse scanners
- Radios and communication equipment
- Laptops and tablets
- Mobile phones
- Medical equipment
- UPS systems
- Battery energy storage systems (BESS)
- E-bikes and e-scooters
- Electric vehicles
- Drones
- Portable lighting
- Cleaning equipment
As businesses continue to electrify fleets and equipment, the number of batteries on site is increasing every year.
Without suitable storage, charging procedures and emergency planning, this can significantly increase fire risk.
2. Why Lithium-Ion Batteries Are Different
Lithium-ion batteries have transformed the way we live and work. Their ability to store large amounts of energy in a compact, lightweight package has made them the preferred choice for powering everything from smartphones and laptops to forklifts, warehouse equipment, electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems.
Unlike traditional lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion batteries provide:
- Higher energy density
- Faster charging times
- Longer service life
- Reduced maintenance
- Greater efficiency
- Lower overall weight
These advantages have accelerated their adoption across virtually every industry.
However, these same characteristics also create unique fire safety challenges.
A lithium-ion battery stores a significant amount of energy within a relatively small space. If that energy is released uncontrollably due to damage, overheating, manufacturing defects or improper charging, the battery can enter a dangerous process known as thermal runaway.
Unlike conventional fires, lithium-ion battery fires generate their own oxygen during decomposition, making them significantly more difficult to control using traditional firefighting methods. They can also reignite hours—or even days—after the initial fire appears to have been extinguished.
For businesses, this means conventional fire safety measures alone may no longer be enough.
The Growing Use of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Many organisations underestimate just how many lithium-ion batteries they have on site.
They can be found in:
- Electric forklifts
- Pallet trucks
- Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)
- Power tools
- Warehouse scanners
- Radios and communication equipment
- Laptops and tablets
- Mobile phones
- Medical equipment
- UPS systems
- Battery energy storage systems (BESS)
- E-bikes and e-scooters
- Electric vehicles
- Drones
- Portable lighting
- Cleaning equipment
As businesses continue to electrify fleets and equipment, the number of batteries on site is increasing every year.
Without suitable storage, charging procedures and emergency planning, this can significantly increase fire risk.
Why Are Battery Fires Different?
Many people assume a lithium-ion battery fire behaves like any other electrical fire.
It doesn’t.
Once thermal runaway begins, the battery can:
- Reach temperatures exceeding 600°C internally, with localised temperatures potentially much higher depending on the battery chemistry and conditions.
- Release highly flammable gases.
- Produce dense toxic smoke.
- Spread rapidly to adjacent battery cells.
- Ignite surrounding combustible materials.
- Continue burning without an external ignition source.
- Reignite after the visible flames have been extinguished.
This behaviour makes lithium-ion battery incidents among the most challenging fires faced by businesses and emergency services today.
Fireguard Expert Tip
Think of a lithium-ion battery as a concentrated source of stored energy.
The larger the battery, the greater the amount of energy that can potentially be released during failure.
That’s why batteries used in forklifts, electric vehicles, energy storage systems and industrial equipment require much more comprehensive fire protection than those found in everyday consumer electronics.
3. Understanding Thermal Runaway
Thermal runaway is the single biggest reason lithium-ion battery fires behave differently from conventional fires.
Understanding this process is one of the most important steps in reducing workplace risk.
What Is Thermal Runaway?
Thermal runaway is a chain reaction that occurs when the internal temperature of a lithium-ion battery rises uncontrollably.
As temperatures increase, the materials inside the battery begin to break down.
This breakdown releases heat faster than the battery can dissipate it.
The increasing heat accelerates the chemical reactions, producing even more heat.
The result is a self-sustaining cycle that can rapidly escalate into fire, explosion or both.
Once thermal runaway has begun, it is extremely difficult to stop.
What Causes Thermal Runaway?
There is rarely a single cause.
Instead, thermal runaway is usually triggered by one or more of the following:
Physical Damage
Dropping batteries.
Forklift impacts.
Crushing.
Punctures.
Improper transportation.
Damage during installation.
Overcharging
Using incompatible chargers.
Faulty charging equipment.
Charging beyond the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Overheating
High ambient temperatures.
Poor ventilation.
Charging near heat sources.
Blocked cooling systems.
Internal Manufacturing Defects
Although uncommon, defects within battery cells can lead to internal short circuits that trigger thermal runaway.
Electrical Faults
Short circuits.
Water ingress.
Damaged wiring.
Poor maintenance.
Battery Age
Older batteries naturally degrade over time.
As they deteriorate, the likelihood of internal failure increases.
Warning Signs
Many lithium-ion battery failures provide warning signs before thermal runaway develops.
Staff should be trained to recognise:
⚠ Battery swelling
⚠ Excessive heat
⚠ Strange smells
⚠ Hissing sounds
⚠ Smoke
⚠ Fluid leakage
⚠ Discolouration
⚠ Physical damage
If any of these warning signs are present, the battery should be isolated immediately in accordance with your emergency procedures.
Why Batteries Reignite
One of the biggest misconceptions is that once the flames are out, the danger has passed.
Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case.
Even after a fire appears to be extinguished:
- Internal temperatures may remain dangerously high.
- Damaged cells can continue reacting.
- Heat can spread to neighbouring cells.
- Residual gases may ignite later.
- A battery can reignite unexpectedly.
For this reason, damaged batteries should always be monitored and handled in accordance with manufacturer guidance and your emergency response procedures.
Fireguard Expert Tip
Never place a damaged lithium-ion battery back into service.
Even if it appears to function normally, internal damage may not be visible and could significantly increase the risk of a future failure.
4. Why Lithium-Ion Battery Fires Are Increasing
Lithium-ion battery fires were once considered relatively rare. Today, they are becoming an increasingly common challenge for businesses across Ireland and around the world.
The reason isn’t that lithium-ion batteries are inherently unsafe. In fact, millions are used safely every day. The increase in incidents is largely due to the sheer growth in battery-powered technology, combined with a lack of awareness about the unique risks these batteries present.
As organisations continue to electrify their operations, battery safety must become an integral part of workplace fire safety planning.
The Growth of Battery-Powered Equipment
Many businesses have significantly increased their use of lithium-ion batteries over the last decade, often without reviewing their existing fire safety procedures.
Today, lithium-ion batteries are commonly found in:
- Electric forklifts and pallet trucks
- Warehouse scanners and handheld terminals
- Power tools
- Cleaning equipment
- Portable radios
- Mobile phones and tablets
- Laptops and computer equipment
- Medical devices
- UPS systems
- Data centres
- Electric vehicles
- E-bikes and e-scooters
- Renewable energy storage systems
- Portable battery packs
In many workplaces, hundreds—or even thousands—of batteries may be present on site at any one time.
The more batteries a business stores, charges and uses, the greater the potential fire risk if suitable controls are not in place.
Faster Charging Means More Heat
Modern batteries are designed to recharge quickly.
While rapid charging improves productivity, it also generates additional heat.
If batteries are:
- Charged continuously
- Charged using incompatible chargers
- Charged in poorly ventilated areas
- Left charging overnight without suitable controls
- Charged after they’ve been damaged
…the likelihood of overheating increases significantly.
A safe charging environment is therefore just as important as safe storage.
Ageing Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries naturally degrade over time.
Every charging cycle causes small changes inside the battery cells.
As batteries age, they become more susceptible to:
- Internal short circuits
- Cell failure
- Excessive heat generation
- Reduced performance
- Thermal runaway
Businesses should have procedures for identifying ageing batteries and replacing them before they become a safety risk.
Damaged Batteries Are Often Overlooked
One of the most common causes of workplace battery incidents is the continued use of damaged batteries.
Damage can occur through:
- Dropping equipment
- Forklift impacts
- Water ingress
- Improper storage
- Excessive vibration
- Crushing
- Physical abuse during transport
Unfortunately, internal battery damage isn’t always visible.
A battery that appears to function normally may already have internal cell damage that significantly increases the risk of failure.
Fireguard Insight
One of the biggest misconceptions we encounter is that a battery is safe simply because it still works.
In reality, physical damage may compromise the battery internally long before any external signs appear. Any battery that has been dropped, crushed or shows signs of damage should be assessed in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidance and your workplace procedures before it is used again.
5. Industries Most at Risk
Lithium-ion battery fires are no longer confined to specialist manufacturing environments.
Today, almost every sector uses battery-powered equipment.
However, some industries face significantly higher levels of risk due to the volume, size or type of batteries they manage.
Warehousing and Logistics
Warehouses often contain:
- Electric forklifts
- Pallet trucks
- Barcode scanners
- Charging stations
- Portable devices
Large numbers of batteries may be charged simultaneously, increasing heat generation and requiring well-designed charging areas with appropriate fire protection.
Manufacturing
Manufacturing facilities frequently rely on:
- Cordless power tools
- Production equipment
- Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)
- Robotics
- Backup power systems
The combination of industrial processes and battery-powered equipment means effective fire prevention measures are essential.
Data Centres
Modern data centres depend heavily on lithium-ion batteries within UPS systems and energy storage solutions.
These installations are critical to business continuity, making early detection, specialist suppression and emergency planning particularly important.
Healthcare
Hospitals, care homes and medical facilities increasingly rely on battery-powered equipment such as:
- Medical devices
- Patient monitoring systems
- Mobility equipment
- Emergency backup power
Maintaining battery safety is essential to protect vulnerable occupants and ensure critical services remain operational.
Education
Schools, colleges and universities now use significant numbers of:
- Laptops
- Tablets
- Charging trolleys
- E-bikes
- Maintenance equipment
Many educational facilities have introduced large-scale charging areas without fully reviewing the associated fire risks.
Residential and Apartment Developments
The growing popularity of electric bikes, scooters and personal mobility devices has created new fire risks in apartment buildings.
Charging batteries inside flats, communal areas and escape routes has become an increasing concern for property managers and building owners.
Retail and Hospitality
Retail stores and hotels commonly use lithium-ion batteries in:
- Cleaning equipment
- Portable payment devices
- Radios
- Security equipment
- Portable lighting
Although the batteries are often smaller, the volume of devices can still create a significant cumulative risk.
Fireguard Insight
Every workplace that stores, charges or uses lithium-ion batteries should consider whether its existing Fire Risk Assessment adequately addresses battery-related hazards.
As battery technology continues to evolve, fire risk assessments should also evolve to reflect changing equipment, charging practices and workplace layouts.
6. Irish Fire Safety Legislation and Employer Responsibilities
Many businesses assume there is a single piece of legislation covering lithium-ion batteries.
In reality, employer responsibilities arise from a combination of fire safety, health and safety, building regulations and general duties of care.
Rather than focusing on one specific “battery law”, organisations should ensure that lithium-ion battery risks are properly considered within their wider fire safety management system.
Fire Services Acts 1981 & 2003
The Fire Services Acts place responsibilities on those who own, occupy or manage buildings to take reasonable measures to guard against the outbreak of fire and to ensure the safety of occupants.
Where lithium-ion batteries are stored or charged, businesses should consider whether additional fire prevention measures are required.
Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005
Under this legislation, employers must, so far as is reasonably practicable:
- Provide a safe place of work
- Identify workplace hazards
- Assess risks
- Implement appropriate control measures
- Provide information, instruction and training
- Prepare emergency procedures
Lithium-ion battery fire risks should form part of this overall approach to workplace safety.
Fire Risk Assessments
Although the exact legal requirements vary depending on the premises and activities undertaken, fire risk assessments should reflect the actual hazards present within the workplace.
Where lithium-ion batteries are used, assessors should consider factors such as:
- Battery storage arrangements
- Charging locations
- Ventilation
- Housekeeping
- Separation from combustible materials
- Emergency response procedures
- Staff training
- Suitable firefighting equipment
A risk assessment that ignores significant battery use may fail to reflect the true level of fire risk within the premises.
7. Safe Lithium-Ion Battery Storage
One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of a lithium-ion battery fire is to store batteries correctly.
Whether you’re storing spare batteries for cordless tools or operating a dedicated battery charging facility for forklifts or industrial equipment, good storage practices can significantly reduce both the likelihood and the consequences of an incident.
Unfortunately, poor storage remains one of the most common issues identified during workplace inspections.
Common Storage Mistakes
Businesses often unintentionally increase fire risk by:
❌ Storing batteries in corridors or escape routes
❌ Leaving batteries exposed to direct sunlight or heat sources
❌ Storing damaged batteries alongside healthy batteries
❌ Placing batteries close to combustible materials such as cardboard, paper, timber or packaging
❌ Allowing batteries to be stacked or piled together without protection
❌ Using unsuitable shelving or containers
❌ Failing to identify damaged or end-of-life batteries
Each of these increases the potential for a small battery failure to develop into a much larger fire.
Best Practice for Battery Storage
Where possible, batteries should be stored in a dedicated area that is:
✔ Clean and dry
✔ Well ventilated
✔ Protected from direct sunlight
✔ Away from ignition sources
✔ Away from combustible materials
✔ Clearly signed
✔ Accessible for inspection
✔ Protected from accidental damage by vehicles or machinery
The storage area should also be included within your Fire Risk Assessment and routine workplace inspections.
Separating Different Battery Types
Not all lithium-ion batteries present the same level of risk.
Businesses should consider separating:
- New batteries
- Batteries currently in service
- Fully charged batteries
- Batteries awaiting charging
- Damaged batteries
- Batteries awaiting recycling or disposal
This reduces the chance of damage spreading between batteries and makes stock management considerably easier.
Storing Damaged Batteries
Damaged batteries should never be returned to general storage.
Instead, they should be:
- Isolated immediately
- Clearly labelled
- Stored in a designated quarantine area
- Kept away from other batteries
- Protected from impact
- Managed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
Even batteries that appear only slightly damaged may have suffered internal cell failure.
Battery Storage Cabinets
As battery numbers increase, many organisations choose to install dedicated lithium-ion battery storage cabinets.
These cabinets provide additional protection by:
- Physically separating batteries from other workplace activities
- Reducing the spread of fire should an incident occur
- Improving organisation and stock management
- Helping support compliance with workplace safety procedures
Some cabinets are also available with ventilation, temperature monitoring and integrated fire suppression systems, depending on the level of risk.
Fireguard Insight
If your organisation stores more than a handful of lithium-ion batteries, it’s worth reviewing whether your current storage arrangements remain appropriate.
Purpose-designed storage solutions can help reduce risk while improving day-to-day operational efficiency.
8. Safe Battery Charging
Charging is one of the periods when lithium-ion batteries are most vulnerable.
Although modern batteries include sophisticated battery management systems, charging still generates heat.
When combined with poor housekeeping or unsuitable charging locations, this can significantly increase fire risk.
Create a Dedicated Charging Area
Charging should ideally take place in a dedicated area designed specifically for battery charging.
This area should:
✔ Be well ventilated
✔ Be free from combustible materials
✔ Have suitable fire detection
✔ Be protected from vehicle impact
✔ Be clearly signed
✔ Have appropriate emergency procedures
Charging batteries throughout a building without designated charging areas makes it much more difficult to manage fire risks consistently.
Avoid Overnight Charging
Many businesses routinely leave batteries charging overnight.
While this may seem convenient, unattended charging increases the likelihood that a fault could develop unnoticed.
Where overnight charging is unavoidable, organisations should ensure appropriate controls are in place, such as monitoring, detection systems and adherence to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Use Approved Chargers
Only chargers supplied or approved by the battery manufacturer should be used.
Using incompatible chargers may result in:
- Incorrect charging voltage
- Excessive temperatures
- Reduced battery life
- Increased risk of overheating
Damaged chargers should be removed from service immediately.
Inspect Batteries Before Charging
Before placing a battery on charge, operators should look for signs of:
- Cracks
- Swelling
- Leaks
- Corrosion
- Physical damage
- Burn marks
- Loose connections
Any damaged battery should be isolated and reported.
Keep Charging Areas Tidy
Good housekeeping remains one of the simplest and most effective fire prevention measures.
Charging areas should be kept free from:
- Cardboard
- Packaging
- Waste materials
- Oils
- Flammable liquids
- General clutter
Maintaining clear access also helps emergency responders if an incident occurs.
Battery Charging Cabinets
Where large numbers of batteries require charging, purpose-designed charging cabinets offer an additional level of protection.
Depending on the application, these systems may include:
- Fire-resistant construction
- Smoke detection
- Temperature monitoring
- Automatic power isolation
- Integrated fire suppression
- Secure charging compartments
These solutions are particularly valuable in environments where multiple batteries are charged simultaneously throughout the day.
Fireguard Insight
Charging dozens of batteries on open shelving or workbenches may have been acceptable a few years ago. As battery numbers continue to grow, organisations should review whether dedicated charging solutions would provide greater protection for staff, equipment and business continuity.
9. Managing Damaged or End-of-Life Batteries
One damaged battery has the potential to create a serious incident.
Knowing how to respond safely is essential.
Recognising a Damaged Battery
A battery should be treated as potentially unsafe if it shows any of the following signs:
- Swelling
- Cracks
- Dents
- Burn marks
- Discolouration
- Leaking fluids
- Unusual odours
- Hissing noises
- Excessive heat
- Smoke
Staff should be encouraged to report these warning signs immediately.
What Should You Do?
If a battery is suspected to be damaged:
- Stop using it immediately.
- Do not continue charging it.
- Isolate it from other batteries where it is safe to do so.
- Follow your workplace emergency procedures.
- Arrange for appropriate disposal or assessment in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidance.
Never attempt to repair a damaged lithium-ion battery unless specifically authorised and trained to do so.
Safe Disposal
Lithium-ion batteries should never be placed in general waste bins.
End-of-life batteries should be disposed of through authorised recycling or waste management routes in accordance with applicable waste regulations and local requirements.
Businesses generating significant numbers of batteries should have documented procedures for battery disposal and recycling.
Fireguard Insight
One of the biggest risks isn’t the battery that catches fire—it’s the damaged battery that nobody realises has been compromised.
Simple inspection procedures and staff awareness can prevent many incidents before they occur.
10. Emergency Planning and Incident Response
Even with the best preventative measures in place, organisations should prepare for the possibility of a lithium-ion battery incident.
Unlike many workplace hazards, lithium-ion battery fires can develop extremely quickly. A well-practised emergency response can significantly reduce the risk to people, minimise damage and improve the effectiveness of emergency services.
Preparation is just as important as prevention.
Recognising the Early Warning Signs
Many battery incidents begin with warning signs before flames appear.
Employees should be trained to recognise:
⚠ A battery becoming unusually hot
⚠ Swelling or bulging
⚠ Hissing or popping sounds
⚠ Smoke or vapour
⚠ A strong chemical or sweet smell
⚠ Sparks
⚠ Flames
Early recognition provides the best opportunity to prevent a developing incident from escalating.
If a Battery Begins to Smoke
If it is safe to do so, staff should:
✔ Stop using the equipment immediately.
✔ Isolate the area.
✔ Warn nearby colleagues.
✔ Follow the organisation’s emergency procedures.
✔ Contact the responsible manager.
If there is any doubt about safety, the priority should always be protecting people rather than attempting to save equipment.
If a Fire Starts
Every workplace should have a documented emergency response procedure.
This should include:
- Raising the alarm
- Calling the Fire Service
- Evacuating personnel
- Isolating the affected area where possible
- Preventing unauthorised access
- Informing emergency responders that lithium-ion batteries are involved
Staff should never place themselves at unnecessary risk.
Evacuation
Lithium-ion battery fires can produce:
- Extremely high temperatures
- Dense smoke
- Toxic gases
- Potential explosions
- Flying debris
If there is any indication that a battery fire is developing beyond the earliest stage, evacuation should be considered in accordance with your emergency procedures.
Escape routes should always remain unobstructed.
Protecting Surrounding Batteries
One of the greatest dangers during a battery incident is fire spreading from one battery to another.
Where safe to do so, consideration should be given to preventing fire spread by maintaining separation between battery storage areas and avoiding overcrowded charging arrangements.
Purpose-designed storage systems can significantly reduce this risk.
Working with the Fire Service
Emergency responders need accurate information.
Businesses should ensure responders can quickly identify:
- Battery storage locations
- Charging areas
- Battery types
- Isolation points
- Fire suppression systems
- Emergency contact details
Good signage and site plans can save valuable time during an emergency.
Fireguard Insight
Planning for an emergency before one happens is one of the most effective ways to reduce the impact of a battery fire.
Training, clear procedures and suitable fire protection measures work together to improve safety.
11. Choosing the Right Fire Protection Equipment
Not every workplace requires the same level of fire protection.
The most appropriate solution depends on:
- Battery type
- Quantity of batteries
- Battery size
- Charging arrangements
- Building layout
- Business activities
- Fire Risk Assessment findings
A layered approach generally provides the highest level of protection.
Lithium-Ion Fire Extinguishers
Traditional extinguishers remain an important part of workplace fire safety.
However, organisations should ensure that the equipment provided is appropriate for the risks identified within their Fire Risk Assessment.
Specialist extinguishers designed for lithium-ion battery incidents can provide additional protection for certain applications and should be selected based on professional advice and manufacturer guidance.
Fire Blankets
Specialist lithium-ion battery fire blankets can help:
- Isolate affected equipment
- Reduce fire spread
- Contain flames
- Reduce radiant heat
- Assist emergency responders
These are commonly used for:
- E-bikes
- E-scooters
- Forklifts
- Portable equipment
- Battery charging areas
- Electric vehicles
They should only be used by trained personnel and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Fire Suppression Systems
Some environments require automatic fire suppression.
These include:
- Forklifts
- Agricultural machinery
- Industrial plant
- Battery charging rooms
- Battery storage containers
- High-risk manufacturing processes
Automatic systems can detect developing fires and initiate suppression before significant damage occurs.
Fire Detection
Early detection remains one of the most effective ways to minimise damage.
Depending on the environment, organisations may consider:
- Smoke detection
- Heat detection
- Multi-sensor detection
- Temperature monitoring
- Battery management monitoring
- Remote alarm systems
Detection should always form part of a wider fire protection strategy.
Fireguard Insight
There is rarely a single product that completely eliminates battery fire risk.
The most effective protection comes from combining good housekeeping, safe charging, suitable storage, staff training, fire detection and appropriate firefighting equipment.
12. Building a Complete Battery Fire Safety Strategy
Managing lithium-ion battery risks should not rely on one person or one procedure.
Instead, organisations should develop a comprehensive battery fire safety strategy.
A strong strategy brings together people, procedures, equipment and regular reviews.
Step 1 – Understand Your Risk
Begin by asking:
- How many batteries do we have?
- Where are they stored?
- Where are they charged?
- Are damaged batteries identified?
- Could a battery fire affect business-critical operations?
Step 2 – Review Your Fire Risk Assessment
Your Fire Risk Assessment should specifically consider lithium-ion battery hazards where relevant.
This includes:
- Storage
- Charging
- Fire spread
- Emergency procedures
- Firefighting equipment
- Staff competence
Step 3 – Introduce Suitable Controls
Control measures may include:
✔ Dedicated storage areas
✔ Charging cabinets
✔ Storage cabinets
✔ Fire blankets
✔ Fire extinguishers
✔ Suppression systems
✔ Temperature monitoring
✔ Fire detection
Step 4 – Train Your Staff
Even the best equipment cannot replace knowledgeable staff.
Training should cover:
- Battery hazards
- Warning signs
- Safe charging
- Safe storage
- Emergency procedures
- Reporting damaged batteries
Step 5 – Review Regularly
Battery technology continues to evolve.
Your procedures should evolve too.
Review:
- New equipment
- Increased battery numbers
- Incident reports
- Near misses
- Manufacturer updates
- Changes to workplace activities
Continuous improvement helps ensure your controls remain effective.
Fireguard’s End-to-End Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Safety Solutions
At Fireguard, we understand that no two organisations face exactly the same challenges.
That’s why we provide complete lithium-ion battery fire safety solutions tailored to your specific workplace, helping businesses across Ireland reduce risk, protect assets and support compliance.
Our services include:
- Fire Risk Assessments
- Lithium-ion battery storage cabinets
- Walk-in battery storage containers
- Battery charging cabinets and charging stations
- Lithium-ion battery fire extinguishers
- Specialist fire blankets
- Fire suppression systems
- Fire safety training and awareness programmes
- Emergency response planning
- Ongoing maintenance and support
Whether you’re managing a small office with portable devices or a large industrial facility with battery-powered fleets, our specialists can help you develop a solution that matches your operational requirements.
13. Frequently Asked Questions
Are lithium-ion batteries more dangerous than lead-acid batteries?
Not necessarily, but they present different risks.
Lithium-ion batteries store significantly more energy in a smaller space. While they are generally very safe when manufactured, used and maintained correctly, damage, overheating or incorrect charging can lead to thermal runaway—a failure mode not typically associated with conventional lead-acid batteries.
The key is understanding the risks and implementing appropriate control measures.
Can lithium-ion batteries catch fire when they’re not charging?
Yes.
Although charging is one of the higher-risk activities, lithium-ion batteries can also fail when:
- Stored incorrectly
- Physically damaged
- Exposed to excessive heat
- Manufacturing defects develop
- Internal short circuits occur
- Batteries have reached the end of their service life
This is why safe storage is just as important as safe charging.
Should damaged batteries be stored with healthy batteries?
No.
Any battery showing signs of:
- Swelling
- Cracking
- Leaking
- Overheating
- Smoke
- Physical impact damage
should be isolated immediately and managed in accordance with your workplace procedures and the manufacturer’s guidance.
Do all businesses need battery storage cabinets?
Not necessarily.
The most appropriate storage solution depends on:
- The number of batteries
- Battery size
- Charging arrangements
- Fire Risk Assessment findings
- Building layout
- Nature of the business
For organisations managing larger numbers of batteries or higher-risk applications, dedicated storage cabinets can provide additional protection and improve battery management.
Can lithium-ion batteries be charged overnight?
While many batteries are routinely charged overnight, organisations should carefully assess whether this is appropriate for their workplace.
If overnight charging is necessary, suitable control measures should be in place, such as:
- Approved charging equipment
- Appropriate charging locations
- Fire detection
- Adequate ventilation
- Regular equipment inspections
- Emergency procedures
How often should batteries be inspected?
There is no single inspection frequency suitable for every workplace.
However, businesses should establish routine visual inspections and encourage employees to report:
- Damage
- Swelling
- Excessive heat
- Unusual smells
- Loose connections
- Signs of deterioration
Higher-risk environments may require more frequent inspections.
Can a lithium-ion battery reignite after the fire has been extinguished?
Yes.
One of the unique characteristics of lithium-ion battery fires is their potential to reignite.
Even after visible flames have been extinguished, internal chemical reactions may continue.
This is one reason damaged batteries should continue to be monitored and managed carefully after an incident.
Do we need to update our Fire Risk Assessment?
If your organisation has introduced lithium-ion batteries into the workplace—or significantly increased their use—your Fire Risk Assessment should be reviewed to ensure these hazards have been properly considered.
Is staff training important?
Absolutely.
Employees are often the first people to identify:
- Damaged batteries
- Unsafe charging practices
- Warning signs
- Smoke
- Overheating
Providing appropriate training helps staff recognise hazards early and respond safely.