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.

UK government publishes lithium-ion battery safety guidelines for e-bikes

by Featured NewsSafety

Statutory guidelines issued for lithium-ion battery safety in e-bikes

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has released new statutory guidelines to address safety concerns surrounding lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes.

These guidelines, developed under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 (GPSR), aim to assist businesses producing, importing, or distributing e-bike batteries to ensure their safety.

According to OPSS, at least 10 fatalities and nearly 200 fires in the UK during 2023 were linked to lithium-ion battery-related incidents in e-bikes or e-scooters.

Mitigating thermal runaway risks

Thermal runaway, a process where battery cells overheat uncontrollably, has been identified as a major fire risk associated with lithium-ion batteries.

The guidelines emphasise the inclusion of safety mechanisms, such as battery management systems, to prevent thermal runaway during normal use or foreseeable misuse.

Producers must ensure batteries are equipped with protective features to detect and address over-voltage, over-current, and unsafe temperatures.

Distributors are also required to verify that products meet these safety requirements before placing them on the market.

Legal compliance and enforcement measures

The GPSR mandates that all consumer products, including lithium-ion batteries for e-bikes, meet general safety requirements.

Producers and distributors must ensure their products are free from risks or present minimal risks when used as intended.

Non-compliance with the GPSR may lead to enforcement actions by OPSS or local authorities, including recalls, product withdrawals, and possible prosecution.

Criminal sanctions may also be imposed where breaches are deemed severe.

Responsibilities of producers and distributors

Producers must conduct safety assessments, monitor product performance, and supply adequate information to consumers regarding safe usage.

Distributors are obligated to act with due care, ensuring that only compliant and safe products reach the market.

Both groups must cooperate with enforcement authorities by providing documentation or addressing risks identified in their products.

UK Government publishes lithium-ion battery safety guidelines for e-bikes: Summary

The UK government, via the Office for Product Safety and Standards, has issued statutory guidelines to improve the safety of lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes.

These measures are aimed at addressing fire risks caused by thermal runaway.

Producers and distributors are required to incorporate safety mechanisms, comply with the General Product Safety Regulations, and cooperate with enforcement authorities.

Non-compliance may result in sanctions, including recalls, withdrawals, or prosecution.

The guidelines are applicable across Great Britain and are strongly recommended for Northern Ireland markets.

Guidance from the UK Department of Transport on e-cycle battery safety

by Featured NewsSafety

Fire safety advice issued for e-cycle users

The UK Department of Transport has published new guidance aimed at e-cycle users to promote battery safety.

Released on 1 February 2024, the guidance underscores the importance of e-cycles in enhancing active travel and contributing to the decarbonisation of the transport sector.

Despite the overall safety of e-cycles, concerns have been raised regarding the fire risks associated with lithium batteries, especially in cases of counterfeit, damaged, or improperly modified e-cycles and batteries, or when using incorrect chargers.

The Department, in collaboration with the National Fire Chief’s Council, London Fire Brigade, and the Bicycle Association, seeks to mitigate these risks with comprehensive safety advice.

Understanding the risks and precautions

The guidance highlights the potential dangers of lithium battery fires, which can be difficult to extinguish and may produce toxic fumes, causing injury or death alongside significant property damage.

It provides detailed advice on purchasing, using, and maintaining e-cycles to ensure safety.

For those buying e-cycles, the guidance recommends purchasing complete e-cycles from reputable retailers and registering the product with the manufacturer.

It advises caution when buying second-hand or converted bikes and stresses the importance of ensuring these meet UK or EU standards, evidenced by CE or UKCA marking.

Charging and storage safety

Specific recommendations include using only chargers supplied with the e-cycle or replacements authorised by the manufacturer, following the manufacturer’s instructions for battery maintenance, and storing and charging e-cycles away from escape routes and combustible materials.

The guidance also suggests installing suitable fire detection in areas where e-cycles are charged or stored.

Legal implications and modifications

Modifications to e-cycles that exceed legal speed or power limits are discouraged, with the guidance noting that such modifications could reclassify the e-cycle as an unregistered motorbike, potentially leading to fines, penalty points, and insurance issues.

Warning signs and emergency response

Users are urged to be vigilant for warning signs of battery issues, such as excessive heat, bulging, leaks, noise, unusual smells, and changes in performance.

In cases where a battery starts smoking or catches fire, the guidance is clear: “raise the alarm, get out, stay out and call 999 immediately.”

IFSJ Comment

The UK Department of Transport’s latest guidance on e-cycle battery safety is a timely intervention aimed at safeguarding users from the potential risks associated with lithium batteries.

By offering detailed advice on purchasing, using, and maintaining e-cycles, the guidance reinforces the government’s commitment to promoting active travel while ensuring the safety of its citizens.

The collaboration with fire safety and industry bodies to produce this guidance illustrates a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges posed by new technologies.

It is a reminder of the critical balance between embracing innovation and ensuring public safety.

As e-cycles become increasingly popular, this guidance serves as an essential resource for users, offering practical steps to mitigate risks and enhance safety in the use of e-cycles.