Firefighters face rising battery and climate risks, says FBU

by ActiveFeatured NewsSafety

Lithium battery incidents growing across UK

Fire Brigades Union general secretary Steve Wright has called for greater investment in fire and rescue services to address the increasing risks posed by lithium-ion batteries and climate-related events.

According to the Fire Brigades Union (FBU), the comments follow recent data from the Office for Product Safety and Standards showing at least 211 fires involving e-scooters and e-bikes were recorded in 2024. In 2020, the figure was 26.

The majority of incidents occurred in London, but the figures are based on voluntary reporting by fire and rescue services, meaning the national total is likely higher.

The union said lithium-ion battery fires pose specific hazards, including the release of flammable gases and the potential for explosion.

These incidents are taking place alongside a documented rise in wildfires and flood responses, which the FBU linked to climate change.

Union cites cuts and slower response times

The Fire Brigades Union said that cuts to the fire service have weakened its ability to respond to modern risks.

According to the FBU, one in five firefighter posts has been lost in England since 2010.

It said these reductions have contributed to a three-and-a-half-minute increase in average response times since the mid-1990s.

Wright said: “Our equipment needs to keep pace with the advances in technology, and so does the training of firefighters that’s been cut over the years. Cars are more advanced, and lithium-ion battery risks are going up.”

He added: “Attendance to climate-related incidents has increased. I know there are climate change deniers in Reform, and I would love to have that argument all day with them because I’ve been on the front line. We’re attending more floods, more wildfires.”

Wright continued: “And because we are taking three-and-a-half minutes longer [to respond] compared with the mid-90s, fires are more developed. Firefighters’ safety has been compromised with the safety of members of the public.”

Lithium-ion fires pose new response challenges

According to the Office for Product Safety and Standards, lithium-ion batteries in e-bikes and e-scooters have been the cause of multiple fire fatalities in the UK.

These fires are difficult to extinguish and can re-ignite after being put out, the FBU explained.

The union also said these batteries can produce high temperatures and flammable gases, increasing the risk to both firefighters and the public.

It added that further investment in training and equipment is necessary to handle these incidents safely.

Climate-related incidents on the rise

The FBU linked increases in flooding and wildfires to climate change, stating that UK fire services are dealing with a wider range of incident types.

Wright said fire crews have seen more climate-driven emergencies in recent years.

He added that firefighters are now regularly deployed to incidents beyond traditional structure fires, which increases the demand on personnel and resources.

The FBU said more comprehensive planning and investment is needed to prepare for ongoing environmental changes.

Response time delays could increase risk

The union cited government figures showing a substantial increase in average fire service response times over recent decades.

According to the FBU, the additional minutes can lead to more fully developed fires and increased hazards for both firefighters and civilians.

It said that this makes adequate staffing levels and resource investment essential for public safety.

Firefighters face rising battery and climate risks, says FBU: Summary

Steve Wright of the Fire Brigades Union has warned that firefighters face growing risks from lithium-ion battery incidents and climate-related emergencies.

According to the Office for Product Safety and Standards, at least 211 e-bike and e-scooter fires were reported in 2024.

The FBU said that this represents a steep increase from 26 fires in 2020.

Most recorded incidents took place in London, but the total is likely higher due to voluntary reporting.

Lithium-ion fires are difficult to manage and can release flammable gases, according to the union.

The FBU said that response times in England have increased by over three minutes since the 1990s.

It attributed this to a 20 percent reduction in firefighter numbers since 2010.

Steve Wright said that fire crews are increasingly responding to floods and wildfires.

He added that more investment is needed in equipment and training.

The FBU has called for further support to address emerging risks.

How the UK and New York are addressing the safety risks of illegal e-bikes and uncertified batteries

by Breaking NewsSafety

Protecting riders and the public: Global efforts to regulate e-bike safety

Ministers in the UK and city officials in New York are taking action to address growing safety risks associated with the rise in illegal and uncertified e-bikes, especially among gig economy delivery workers.

A cross-party parliamentary group in the UK has called on the government to tighten laws and close online loopholes contributing to the sale of high-powered, fire-risk e-bikes.

Meanwhile, the New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) has launched a trade-in programme offering certified e-bikes and batteries to delivery workers, aiming to reduce battery fire risks and improve road safety.

All-party group raises concerns over illegal e-bikes

Legal gaps fuelling fire hazards

The Guardian has reported that a cross-party parliamentary group has urged the UK Government to act urgently against illegal e-bikes and conversion kits, particularly those used by gig economy delivery riders.

The group’s report described the problem as “a crisis hiding in plain sight,” warning that illegally modified or non-compliant e-bikes with motors up to 2,000w and speeds over 40mph pose risks both on roads and within buildings due to substandard battery safety.

Fire service data reveals rising incidents

According to London Fire Brigade data cited in the report, fire incidents involving e-bikes or e-scooters rose from 8 in 2019 to 179 in 2023.

Many of the devices, the report said, use multiple batteries not manufactured to UK fire safety standards.

This has led to transport operators and workplaces banning all e-bikes from their premises, affecting even those with legal bikes.

Policy recommendations to tackle sales and safety

The report, chaired by Labour MP Fabian Hamilton, calls for police to be given clearer powers to seize illegal bikes and recommends a scrappage scheme for those used in food delivery, funded by the companies employing the riders.

It also urges changes to online sales rules, closing the “off-road only” loophole, and making online platforms liable for illegal listings.

Hamilton said: “This is a crisis hiding in plain sight. While responsible cycling businesses continue to meet high safety standards, the rise of illegal and unsafe e-bikes, often bought online and used in the gig economy, has created serious risks for riders, the public and the future of active travel.

“We need urgent action from government and industry to stop unsafe products entering the UK and to protect those being exploited while trying to earn a living.”

New York launches certified e-bike trade-in programme

City initiative targets safety and equity

The New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT), in partnership with the Fire Department (FDNY), has begun distributing certified e-bikes and batteries to food delivery workers as part of the Charge Safe, Ride Safe: Electric Micromobility Action Plan.

The pilot programme allows eligible workers to trade in uncertified e-bikes or illegal mopeds in exchange for one certified e-bike and two UL-tested batteries.

It was established under Local Law 131 of 2023 and is backed by $2 million in municipal funding.

Reducing fire risk from uncertified equipment

Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez said: “Safer certified e-bikes, batteries, and charging practices will protect all New Yorkers from deadly fires.

“Delivery workers have one of the toughest jobs in New York City and supporting their work is part of our efforts to create a safer, more sustainable future.”

FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker added: “Uncertified lithium-ion batteries are extremely dangerous and even deadly.

“This trade-in programme will protect the public, and our first responders charged with responding to fires caused by these batteries.”

Training, recycling and infrastructure improvements

Participants must complete a safety training course before receiving their equipment.

More than 400 delivery workers are expected to take part in the scheme this summer.

The programme includes responsible disposal and recycling of uncertified devices, multilingual outreach, and infrastructure developments such as widened bike lanes and approved battery-swapping stations.

City Councilmember Keith Powers, who sponsored the legislation, said: “This first of its kind programme is a critical measure to keep New Yorkers safe.

“Fires from unregulated e-bike batteries have already caused too much harm, including tragic loss of life.

“I am proud to have passed this important legislation.”

Community and political support

Worker organisations and lawmakers back safety scheme

State Senator Robert Jackson said: “This is how we legislate equity and build a safer, more just New York – one battery at a time.”

Worker’s Justice Project executive director Ligia Guallpa added: “Today demonstrates what is possible when workers organise for their safety and rights and find true partners in city government willing to demonstrate that centring worker safety can drive cutting-edge innovations to meet transportation needs.”

How the UK and New York are addressing the safety risks of illegal e-bikes and uncertified batteries: Summary

A UK parliamentary group has reported that illegal e-bikes and conversion kits are widely available online and pose safety risks.

UK law allows e-bikes to assist pedalling only up to 15.5mph with a maximum motor power of 250w.

The report found that many e-bikes on sale exceed these limits, with motors of up to 2,000w and speeds of 40mph.

The bikes are frequently used by gig economy delivery workers and are often powered by batteries not meeting UK safety standards.

London Fire Brigade data showed fire incidents involving e-bikes rose from 8 in 2019 to 179 in 2023.

The group called for clearer police powers, a scrappage scheme, and regulation of online listings.

In New York, NYC DOT launched a trade-in programme for delivery workers using uncertified e-bikes.

The programme offers one certified e-bike and two UL-tested batteries per worker.

The scheme was developed under Local Law 131 of 2023.

More than 400 workers are expected to participate in the pilot.

FDNY data linked most battery fires to uncertified batteries not being charged at the time.

Applicants must complete safety training to receive the equipment.

Recycled devices will be disposed of through DOT-led events.

Wider bike lanes and charging infrastructure are also being introduced.

EU guidance on fire safety for electric vehicles in covered parking areas

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Key recommendations for electric vehicle fire safety

The Sustainable Transport Forum (STF), under the leadership of the European Commission, has published guidance addressing fire safety risks associated with battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and recharging infrastructure in covered parking areas.

The guidance document outlines best practices and recommendations for public authorities and private stakeholders.

It aims to ensure the safe deployment of BEVs by identifying existing and forthcoming legislation, examining fire safety challenges, and providing actionable safety measures.

The recommendations apply to local authorities, parking lot operators, designers, risk assessors, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and property owners involved in installing BEV recharging stations in both new and existing covered parking facilities.

Fire risks associated with electric vehicles and charging infrastructure

The report highlights that BEVs do not inherently pose a greater fire risk than internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs), but fires involving lithium-ion batteries present unique challenges.

The primary risks associated with BEV fires include thermal runaway, jet fires, and vapor cloud explosions.

The guidance document also notes that the condition and reliability of recharging infrastructure can contribute to fire hazards.

Fire safety concerns extend to human safety, firefighter intervention challenges, risks for parking operators and building owners, and potential environmental impacts.

The guidance outlines various strategies to mitigate these risks.

Fire safety measures for covered parking facilities

The guidance presents fire safety measures in five key areas:

  • Prevention: Conducting fire risk assessments for new and existing parking structures.
  • Detection: Installing advanced fire detection systems to quickly identify fires involving BEVs.
  • Evacuation: Designing clear evacuation routes and positioning charging points away from emergency exits.
  • Propagation control: Using fire-resistant systems and compartmentalisation in parking structures to limit fire spread.
  • Firefighting: Ensuring firefighters have access to specialised equipment and training for BEV fire response.

Policy recommendations for public and private stakeholders

The report provides specific recommendations for both public authorities and private entities involved in BEV infrastructure.

For private stakeholders, such as parking operators and OEMs, the guidance recommends adhering to high safety standards when deploying BEV infrastructure, ensuring regular maintenance, and improving fire-resistant materials in parking designs.

For public authorities, it suggests establishing clear fire safety regulations, improving emergency response strategies, and ensuring that firefighters are trained in handling BEV fires.

The guidance aligns with the EU’s broader decarbonisation goals, promoting the safe and widespread adoption of BEVs.

EU guidance on fire safety for electric vehicles in covered parking areas: Summary

The Sustainable Transport Forum has issued a report detailing fire safety measures for BEVs and charging infrastructure in covered parking areas.

The guidance identifies key challenges, including risks associated with lithium-ion battery fires and recharging infrastructure reliability.

The recommendations focus on five main fire safety areas: prevention, detection, evacuation, propagation control, and firefighting.

The guidance is aimed at public authorities, parking operators, OEMs, and property owners, providing best practices for integrating BEVs into urban infrastructure safely.

By implementing these measures, stakeholders can enhance fire safety in covered parking facilities while supporting the EU’s transition to electric mobility.

Belcor patents new EV battery safety technology integrating Quartzene

by Featured NewsSafety

Patent application for new battery safety solution

Belcor has filed a patent application for a new technology that integrates its Belcotex fibres with Svenska Aerogel’s Quartzene material.

The European company develops nonwoven-based thermal and fire protection solutions.

Its latest innovation aims to improve safety and thermal management in electric vehicle (EV) batteries.

Integration of Quartzene in Belcotex fibres

Belcor’s technology allows for precise modulation of substrate densities to meet specific battery cell requirements.

A key aspect of the development is the integration of Svenska Aerogel’s Quartzene, which the company states enhances efficiency and versatility.

Belcor has delivered prototypes incorporating the material to leading EV manufacturers.

According to the company, the results have been positive, reinforcing its market position.

Svenska Aerogel’s response

Tor Einar Norbakk, CEO of Svenska Aerogel, commented on the development: “We are proud that Belcor has chosen our material for its innovative battery safety solution, and the patent application underscores the strength of the innovation.”

He added: “The fact that the project has now reached the stage where prototype testing is being conducted with OEMs further confirms market confidence and strengthens trust in our technology.”

Focus on battery performance testing

Belcor is conducting tests to assess how substrate densities impact battery cell endurance.

The company states that these functional tests ensure the substrates align with the required pressure specifications for durability and efficiency.

Belcor patents new EV battery safety technology integrating Quartzene: Summary

Belcor has applied for a patent for a technology that integrates its Belcotex fibres with Svenska Aerogel’s Quartzene material to improve safety and thermal management in electric vehicle batteries.

The company has supplied prototypes of the innovation to EV manufacturers and reports positive results.

Svenska Aerogel CEO Tor Einar Norbakk has stated that the testing phase with OEMs confirms market confidence in the technology.

Belcor is also carrying out functional tests to optimise battery performance, focusing on substrate density and pressure specifications.

Lithium-ion battery fires increase in NSW, prompting FRNSW warning

by Featured NewsSafety

FRNSW responds to growing number of lithium-ion battery fires

Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) has reported an increase in lithium-ion battery fires, with 25 incidents recorded in 2025 so far.

Since 2 February, firefighters have attended 13 lithium-ion battery-related fires, including four incidents within 12 hours last week.

In one case in Sydney’s southwest, an e-scooter exploded and caught fire, injuring two men—one from flying debris and the other from smoke inhalation.

Firefighters believe the incident was caused by an incorrect charger used with a modified device, two common factors in lithium-ion battery fires.

FRNSW is urging the public to take precautions when charging and using battery-powered devices.

Survey highlights public complacency around lithium-ion battery risks

A NSW Government survey has revealed that while 44% of respondents understand the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, many still engage in unsafe charging practices.

Findings show that:

  • 73% charge devices while unattended
  • 70% charge batteries near living spaces or exits
  • 64% leave devices plugged in after charging
  • 51% use low-quality chargers or batteries

Additionally, 32% of respondents said they did not know how to implement safety measures, while 29% were unsure.

Authorities are calling for increased public awareness to reduce the risk of fires.

NSW introduces new product safety standards for e-micromobility devices

NSW Fair Trading has implemented new product safety standards to improve the quality of lithium-ion-powered e-bikes, e-scooters, e-skateboards, and hoverboards.

The regulations, which took effect on 1 February, require these vehicles, along with their batteries and chargers, to meet safety compliance standards.

Further measures, including mandatory testing and certification, will come into effect in August 2025, with labelling requirements set for February 2026.

From late February 2025, an information standard will also be introduced to ensure consumers receive safety guidance at the time of purchase.

Retailers and manufacturers must provide this information or face fines of up to $5,500 per breach.

Authorities emphasise safe disposal of lithium-ion batteries

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is urging residents to dispose of lithium-ion batteries properly, citing an increase in fires caused by batteries discarded in household waste.

EPA Executive Director Alexandra Geddes said: “Every year, we see fires breaking out in garbage trucks and recycling facilities because people are throwing batteries in household bins. This is not just dangerous – it’s avoidable.”

The EPA advises consumers to take used batteries to designated drop-off points, such as supermarkets and Community Recycling Centres, to prevent fire hazards.

Lithium-ion battery fires increase in NSW, prompting FRNSW warning: Summary

Fire and Rescue NSW has recorded 25 lithium-ion battery fires in 2025, including 13 incidents since 2 February.

An e-scooter fire in Sydney’s southwest resulted in injuries to two men.

Authorities believe the fire was caused by an incorrect charger used with a modified device.

A NSW Government survey found that many residents continue to engage in unsafe charging behaviours, despite awareness of the risks.

In response, NSW Fair Trading has introduced new safety standards for e-micromobility devices, with further regulations set for August 2025 and February 2026.

The NSW EPA has warned against improper battery disposal, linking it to fires in garbage trucks and recycling facilities.

Officials advise the public to follow fire safety guidelines when using lithium-ion-powered devices.

Battery safety concerns highlighted in UK government report

by Featured NewsSafety

UK study examines fire risks of lithium-ion batteries in e-bikes and e-scooters

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has published a report on the safety risks associated with lithium-ion batteries in Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEVs), such as e-bikes and e-scooters.

The study, conducted by Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG), examined scientific literature, real-world fire incident data, existing regulations, and battery testing results.

It found that PLEV battery fires have increased in the UK, with incidents in London rising from two in 2017 to at least 178 in 2023, according to London Fire Brigade (LFB).

The research highlights concerns over manufacturing quality, battery management system (BMS) effectiveness, and consumer misuse.

Increase in PLEV battery fires linked to charging and quality issues

The report found that charging practices and battery quality are key factors in lithium-ion battery failures, which can lead to thermal runaway, fires, and explosions.

Analysis of LFB data showed that most PLEV battery fires occurred indoors, often while charging.

Some incidents involved the use of incompatible chargers with higher voltages than the battery’s specification.

The research also identified that conversion kits used to modify bicycles into e-bikes were involved in the majority of e-bike-related fires where the origin could be determined.

Battery inspections revealed that cheaper batteries often lacked critical safety features, such as temperature sensors, and had poor manufacturing standards.

In some cases, battery management systems failed to prevent excessive current and temperature levels, increasing the risk of thermal runaway.

Regulatory gaps and inconsistencies in PLEV battery safety

The report reviewed UK product safety regulations and identified inconsistencies in their application to PLEV batteries.

E-bikes and e-scooters with motors are regulated under the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008, which impose detailed health and safety requirements.

However, separately sold batteries, including those used in conversion kits, fall under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 or the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016, which lack specific safety provisions for lithium-ion batteries.

The study also noted differences between e-bike and e-scooter battery safety standards.

While e-bike standards require compliance with stricter battery safety regulations, e-scooter batteries are subject to less rigorous requirements.

Recommendations for improving PLEV battery safety

The OPSS report suggests several measures to improve safety, including stronger regulations, improved standards, and enhanced consumer guidance.

Recommendations include introducing mandatory safety standards for all PLEV batteries, improving battery testing to account for real-world usage conditions, and enhancing consumer awareness about safe charging practices.

The study also highlighted the need for better incident data collection to inform future safety measures.

WMG noted that markets with stricter certification requirements, such as New York City and Singapore, have seen reduced incidents of battery fires following the introduction of safety regulations.

The report suggests that similar measures could help reduce PLEV fire risks in the UK.

London Fire Brigade Comment

Responding to the research, London Fire Brigade Deputy Commissioner Charlie Pugsley said: “This new independent research carried out by the Warwick Manufacturing Group reinforces the concerns that have been consistently raised by London Fire Brigade into the safety of e-bike and e-scooter lithium-ion batteries, chargers and particularly with conversion kits.

“The research, which was supported by our own substantial incident data, reaffirms the importance of introducing stricter regulation to reduce the risk of customers being exposed to dangerous products, particularly online. 

“We hope the Product Regulation & Metrology Bill currently being brought forward will set a pathway for the necessary action to be taken to protect people from these types of fires and we are providing data and expertise to Government as we want to ensure the Bill is as strong as possible.”

Battery safety concerns highlighted in UK government report: Summary

A report commissioned by the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has examined the safety risks associated with lithium-ion batteries in Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEVs), including e-bikes and e-scooters.

Conducted by Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG), the study found a rise in battery-related fires in the UK, with London Fire Brigade (LFB) reporting an increase from two incidents in 2017 to at least 178 in 2023.

The report identified several factors contributing to fire risks, including poor manufacturing quality, inadequate battery management systems, and consumer use of incompatible chargers.

Testing of batteries revealed that cheaper products often lacked essential safety features, increasing the likelihood of thermal runaway and fires.

Regulatory inconsistencies were also highlighted, with some PLEV batteries subject to less stringent safety requirements.

The report recommends stricter regulations, improved battery testing, and better consumer education to reduce fire risks.

It also suggests learning from international markets, such as New York City and Singapore, where stricter safety measures have been implemented.

S Jones Containers provide Cardiff Uni racing team with specialist unit

by Featured NewsPeopleProductsProjects

Container conversion company, S Jones Containers, has provided Cardiff University’s School of Engineering with a bespoke, secure battery testing and storage unit for its Formula Student team, Cardiff Racing.

The specialist container is used to safely store and charge batteries for Cardiff University’s Formula Student racing team, which is made up of students from across the engineering degree disciplines.

Cardiff Racing competes every year in the Formula Student (FSUK) competition, which tasks teams to design, build and race a single-seater race car, and became the first British team to win FSUK in 2017. The team is making the leap to electric racing cars making battery safety paramount.

Features of the unit

As the unit is located on the university’s busy city centre campus in close proximity to other buildings, S Jones Conversions Division incorporated additional safety elements as part of the design, such as fire-rated materials throughout to make sure the entire container is fire rated from inside to out to give 60 minutes of fire resistance, and installing three phases of electrics – all with surge protection.

The 10ft container, which was converted at S Jones Containers’ specialist workshop in the West Midlands, was also fitted with an external isolator and a powerful 5KW HVAC unit – deliberately oversized to keep the equipment cool at all times.

The new battery testing and storage unit also features a super strong steel 60 Min Fire Rated Door and doorset and is securely locked with S Jones Containers’ own heavy duty patented Contain-A-Lock® system which is corrosion resistant and tamper proof.

The unit was spray-painted to a dark olive green shade to blend with its surroundings. It took just four weeks from initial design to completion, ready to deliver to campus.

This is the second project S Jones Conversions Division has completed for Cardiff University. A few years ago, the team created a specialist battery testing and storage unit for the university as part of a previous research project at the Centre of Research into Energy, Waste and Environment.

Space Manager, Cardiff University School of Engineering, Anthony James’ statement

Anthony James, Space Manager at Cardiff University School of Engineering commented: “We couldn’t be happier with the service we received from S Jones Containers. The design and the finish of the container are exceptional and will help us build on our racing success in a safe environment.”

Conversions General Manager, S Jones Containers, Andrew Nicholls’ statement

Andrew Nicholls, Conversions General Manager at S Jones Containers added: “Our specialist battery testing and storage units are a proven solution that we’ve developed following consultation with representatives from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service as well as battery manufacturers.

“This is just one example of how we’re helping to support the research and development of next generation battery power by providing a containerised space for testing to be carried out safely. We’re proud to work with leading research teams to create bespoke solutions that meet their exact needs.”  

Cardiff Uni Racing team provided with a bespoke unit by S Jones Containers: Summary

S Jones Containers has provided Cardiff Universities School of Engineering with a battery tested and storage unit, designed to support the needs of their successful Cardiff Racing Formula Student team.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service launches safety campaign amid rise in rechargeable battery fires

by Featured NewsSafety

Rechargeable battery fire incidents increase in Scotland

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has reported a rise in fires caused by devices with rechargeable batteries, with 26 incidents recorded in Scotland last year compared to just three in 2018.

Lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in mobile phones, laptops, e-scooters, and e-bikes, can ignite if damaged, faulty, or improperly used.

These fires may also result in explosions and the release of toxic fumes.

To address this growing issue, the SFRS has launched a safety campaign.

Assistant Chief Officer Jon Henderson said: “Most homes have electrical products powered by lithium-ion batteries… these items should be used safely and treated with respect as, when damaged or faulty, the batteries can cause significant fires which could have devastating results for you, your family and your home.”

Safety tips issued to reduce fire risk

The campaign emphasises several key safety measures.

These include buying devices from reputable retailers, using approved chargers, and unplugging devices after charging.

Firefighters also recommend keeping exit routes clear and avoiding the charging or storage of batteries in hallways or bedrooms.

They warn against charging devices while asleep and highlight the importance of identifying and recycling damaged or old batteries.

Watch Commander Kevin Ketchen, who attended an e-scooter battery fire in West Lothian, said: “When we arrived at the scene, the battery had exploded and was producing extreme heat and a thick flammable gas.

“We would ask people to ensure they have smoke detectors in place at home and never charge these items in escape routes like hallways or in bedrooms.”

Minister calls for caution with household batteries

Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown expressed concern over the increase in home fires linked to rechargeable batteries.

She encouraged public awareness of the risks associated with their use and disposal.

Brown stated: “The rise in accidental fires in the home linked to electronic devices with rechargeable batteries is concerning…

“I urge everyone to be aware of the risks and if you ever see smoke or flames coming from a battery or device, never tackle it yourself: get out, stay out and call 999.”

Safe disposal of batteries stressed by recycling experts

Improper disposal of rechargeable batteries is another concern.

Batteries discarded in general waste can become damaged in bin lorries or waste sites, increasing the risk of fires.

Paul Doherty, Recycling Manager at Zero Waste Scotland, said: “Batteries and vapes should never be disposed of in general waste to avoid the risk of fire and contamination if they leak.

“Instead, batteries and single-use vapes should be deposited for recycling either at your local Household Waste Recycling Centre, or at in-store recycling receptacles found in any shop that sells these items regularly.”

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service launches safety campaign amid rise in rechargeable battery fires: Summary

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has launched a campaign to address the rising number of fires caused by rechargeable batteries, which increased from three in 2018 to 26 in 2023.

Safety advice includes buying devices from reputable retailers, using approved chargers, unplugging after charging, and keeping escape routes clear.

Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown urged the public to remain cautious and follow the guidance.

Improper disposal of batteries also poses fire risks, with recycling experts emphasising responsible disposal at designated facilities.

South Korea government advises automakers to reveal battery details for electric vehicles

by Featured NewsSafety

South Korea to push for greater transparency on batteries in electric vehicles

South Korea is set to urge automakers operating in the country to identify the batteries used in their electric vehicles (EVs) following recent safety concerns.

The government is advising car manufacturers to voluntarily disclose this information to address growing public fears after a fire involving an EV in Incheon caused significant damage earlier this month.

As reported by Reuters, the fire, which occurred in an underground parking lot in Incheon on August 1, originated from a Mercedes-Benz EV equipped with Farasis Energy batteries.

The incident led to the destruction or damage of around 140 vehicles and prompted the evacuation of residents from nearby apartments.

In response, the South Korean government is pushing for more transparency to alleviate public anxiety over the safety of EV batteries.

Car companies respond to calls for transparency

In light of the government’s push for transparency, several car manufacturers have begun identifying the battery suppliers for their EVs.

Hyundai Motor and Genesis have disclosed that their EVs use batteries from LG Energy Solution, SK On, and China’s CATL, according to their website.

Kia Corp has also named its primary battery suppliers, LGES and SK On, while confirming that some of its models are powered by CATL.

Mercedes-Benz Korea, involved in the Incheon incident, stated that it primarily uses batteries from CATL and Farasis Energy, with some sourced from LGES and SK On.

The company is actively cooperating to determine the cause of the fire and plans to offer free inspections to EV owners.

Industry response and expert opinions

South Korean battery manufacturers LGES, SK On, and Samsung SDI have not commented on their batteries’ involvement in EV fires, while CATL and Farasis have not responded to requests for comments.

Industry insiders believe that battery makers are unlikely to oppose the government’s transparency push, though they caution against assuming that batteries are solely responsible for such incidents.

Experts have noted that while disclosing battery information could provide consumers with more choice, it may not significantly improve safety due to the limited data on which battery brands are more prone to fires.

Kim Jonghoon, a professor at Chungnam National University, highlighted the need for advancements in battery management systems to provide earlier warnings and mitigate the risks associated with EV fires.

Safety concerns remain despite transparency efforts

Despite efforts to increase transparency, safety concerns related to EV batteries persist.

The Incheon fire has heightened public fears, with some experts suggesting that the anxiety surrounding EVs, often referred to as “EV phobia,” may continue for some time.

The South Korean government’s call for greater battery disclosure is viewed as a preliminary step, with further measures needed to enhance the safety and reliability of EVs.

South Korea government advises automakers to reveal battery details for electric vehicles: Summary

The South Korean government is urging automakers to disclose the battery types used in their electric vehicles to address safety concerns following a recent fire in Incheon.

The incident involved a Mercedes-Benz EV with Farasis Energy batteries, resulting in extensive damage and raising public fears.

In response, some car manufacturers, including Hyundai, Kia, and Mercedes-Benz, have begun naming their battery suppliers.

However, experts caution that while this transparency may offer consumers more choices, it might not significantly impact safety without further advancements in battery management systems.

The government’s initiative marks a step towards addressing the issue, but concerns about EV safety remain prevalent.

Euralarm position paper aids market surveillance authorities in interpreting EU battery regulation

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsSafety

Euralarm’s new position paper on battery regulation

Euralarm has released a Position Paper aimed at assisting Market Surveillance Authorities in interpreting the EU Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 concerning batteries and waste batteries.

As reported by Euralarm, this Position Paper focuses on batteries typically used in fire safety, life safety, and security systems.

The document highlights the types of batteries found in panels and alarm transmitters while excluding those used in wireless detectors due to differing applications and technologies.

The paper aims to clarify how the regulation impacts these batteries, particularly regarding their classification and intended use.

Classification of industrial batteries

According to the Euralarm Position Paper, the EU Battery Regulation categorises batteries based on their design and use, rather than their chemistry.

The paper emphasises that batteries used in safety and security systems are classified as industrial batteries, irrespective of their weight.

Euralarm explains that this classification affects how these batteries are regulated, particularly in emergency power systems.

Such batteries serve as secondary power sources in fire alarm panels and must comply with the harmonised standard EN 54-4 under the Construction Products Regulation.

Impact on existing systems

The Position Paper stresses the importance of the regulation’s impact on both new installations and existing systems.

Euralarm points out that the maintenance of existing systems, which have been designed and certified for specific battery types, is crucial for their reliability and safety.

The paper notes that while the life expectancy of these systems is several decades, the batteries typically last only 4-7 years.

Therefore, the ongoing availability of industrial batteries is critical for the maintenance of millions of safety and security systems across Europe.

Conclusion of the position paper

Euralarm’s Position Paper concludes that batteries installed in fire, life safety, and security panels as secondary power sources should be classified as industrial batteries.

This classification exempts them from certain substance restrictions under the EU Battery Regulation.

The paper cites the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection’s agreement with this interpretation.

Euralarm also warns that a reduction in demand and production of smaller batteries may affect prices but emphasises that availability must not be compromised.

Read the Euralarm Position Paper on Battery Regulation here.