The new EV rescue sheet website every firefighter needs to know about

by ActiveFeatured NewsResearchSafetySearch and Rescue

Access to rescue sheets for US responders

The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has reported that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a new website giving responders direct access to emergency response guides and rescue sheets for electric vehicles.

The IAFF explained that this is intended to support fire fighters and emergency responders in safely addressing incidents involving battery-electric, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles.

According to the association, the new portal includes files transferred from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), which will discontinue its previous online platform.

The IAFF stated that the database now serves as the main resource for model-specific emergency documents covering a wide range of vehicle manufacturers and models.

It added that members can now find both current and historical documentation to help with incident response and training.

Content of emergency response guides

The IAFF reported that emergency response guides contain detailed information on hazards related to EVs, including fire, fluid leaks, submersion and towing.

It explained that the documents provide responders with procedures for immobilising vehicles, disabling high-voltage systems and safely handling batteries.

The IAFF said that each guide is vehicle-specific and covers structural reinforcements, recommended cut zones and restraint systems.

It added that guides also include details on stabilisation points, disabling methods and energy sources such as lithium-ion batteries.

According to the association, these documents are designed to reduce risks of shock, fire or injury when working at crash scenes or during recovery operations.

Role of rescue sheets in incidents

The IAFF outlined that rescue sheets are condensed versions of the emergency response guides.

It said these sheets are intended to be used directly at the scene of a collision or emergency.

The association explained that the sheets provide rapid access to information about vehicle construction, cut points and high-voltage component locations.

It added that responders can quickly reference diagrams that highlight critical systems such as airbags, batteries and fuel tanks.

According to the IAFF, this information helps responders make immediate decisions about extrication and hazard management.

Example: Alfa Romeo Tonale rescue sheet

One example of the materials available on the NHTSA portal is the Alfa Romeo Tonale Plug-In Hybrid Q4 rescue sheet.

The document states that the vehicle is powered by lithium-ion batteries and requires responders to follow strict high-voltage disablement procedures.

It warns that a lack of engine noise does not mean the vehicle is off, as it may still be capable of movement.

Responders are instructed to cut specific low-voltage cables to disable high-voltage power and to avoid orange connectors.

The sheet also identifies stabilisation points, hazards such as high-strength steel zones, and procedures for towing and storage.

Warnings within the sheet advise that gases released from damaged lithium-ion batteries include hydrogen and hydrogen fluoride, both presenting risks to health and safety.

Transfer from NFPA to NHTSA

The IAFF stated that the NFPA has now transferred its database of EV emergency files to NHTSA.

It reported that NHTSA’s portal includes over 480 results covering multiple manufacturers and EV types.

The association said that this transfer means NHTSA will now serve as the single national source for these documents.

According to the IAFF, this centralisation is intended to simplify access for responders and standardise the location of critical information.

The IAFF added that fire fighters and emergency responders should now refer exclusively to the NHTSA platform when seeking EV response information.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This development is directly relevant to fire and safety professionals because it centralises critical EV incident documentation in one federal resource.

It allows responders to quickly access both emergency response guides and rescue sheets that provide essential information for safe extrication and hazard control.

The move ensures consistent access to manufacturer-submitted data covering battery, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles.

For training, planning and live operations, fire and rescue teams in the United States can now rely on a single portal for accurate and vehicle-specific EV response instructions.

NHTSA launches EV rescue sheet and guide website: Summary

The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has reported that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a new website.

The website provides emergency responders with access to electric vehicle emergency response guides and rescue sheets.

The database includes files transferred from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

The NFPA has discontinued its previous portal for these documents.

The NHTSA platform now serves as the central national resource.

Emergency response guides provide detailed instructions on hazards, immobilisation and high-voltage disablement.

Rescue sheets give condensed information for use at crash scenes.

One example is the Alfa Romeo Tonale Plug-In Hybrid Q4 rescue sheet.

The sheet identifies lithium-ion battery hazards and step-by-step disablement methods.

It also warns about risks from gases released during battery damage.

The database contains over 480 results covering many vehicle makes and models.

Fire fighters and responders can now access both historical and current documentation.

The platform supports safer response to incidents involving battery, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles.

This centralisation gives US responders a single location for vehicle-specific emergency information.

Time to retire submersion tactics: Why water tanks fail to stop lithium-ion battery incidents

by Breaking NewsFire SuppressionSearch and Rescue

Neil Pedersen, CEO at Fire Containers limited, explains why submersion tactics are ineffective and how targeted containment units offer a safer and more sustainable alternative

As the global transition to electric vehicles (EVs) accelerates, so too does the challenge of safely managing lithium-ion battery incidents, particularly in post-collision or fire-related recovery scenarios.

For years, one of the most commonly discussed methods for handling runaway battery fires has been full submersion in water.

Yet, while this may appear on the surface to offer a reliable solution, the reality is far more complex – and dangerous.

It is time the industry confronts an inconvenient truth: submersion tactics are not only outdated, but they pose significant safety, environmental, logistical, and cost-related risks.

Instead, advanced water suppression containment systems – such as those utilised in purpose-built containment units – offer a far more effective, scalable, and environmentally responsible alternative.

The myth of submersion

Submersion is often marketed as a “catch-all” solution: place the burning or compromised EV in a large container, flood it with water, and let it sit until the risk has passed.

On paper, it sounds logical.

In practice, it’s riddled with flaws.

1. Size and impracticality

A typical electric vehicle weighs between 1.5 to 3 tonnes and is roughly 4–5 metres long.

Submerging such a vehicle requires a container large enough to fully engulf it in water, filled with tens of thousands of litres.

This volume is not only difficult to access in most real-world recovery scenarios, especially roadside or in urban areas, but also impossible to mobilise quickly without significant delay and infrastructure.

2. Environmental hazards

Lithium-ion battery fires release toxic and corrosive gases, and when these batteries are submerged, the water rapidly becomes contaminated with heavy metals, fluorinated compounds, and harmful particulates.

This produces a hazardous waste by-product that must be disposed of as chemical waste – at high environmental and financial cost.

Spillages or improper containment can lead to serious ecological damage.

3. Fire re-ignition risk not resolved

The common belief that submersion ‘kills’ the fire is misleading.

Lithium-ion battery cells can undergo thermal runaway – a self-sustaining chemical reaction that doesn’t rely on oxygen.

Water may cool the battery temporarily, but cells can reignite hours or even days later, especially once the submerged vehicle is removed.

Submersion delays, but does not neutralise, the root problem.

4. Logistics and transport challenges

Once submerged, how do you move the vehicle? Most recovery operators do not carry 30,000-litre submersion tanks.

Transferring the vehicle between the scene, a submersion tank, and a disposal site increases the risk of cell re-ignition, environmental leakage, and injury.

It also escalates operational complexity beyond what recovery teams or emergency responders are trained or equipped to manage.

The case for water suppression containment

Rather than trying to extinguish thermal runaway through sheer volume, a smarter, safer method lies in controlled suppression within purpose-built containment systems – designed to isolate, cool, and control the event while supporting emergency response and recovery.

1. Engineered for real-world application

Water suppression containment units – such as the Fire Safety Containment Unit (FSCU) and Electric Vehicle Containment Unit (EVCU) developed by Fire Containers limited – are designed specifically to handle EV incidents.

These mobile units can be deployed at the scene, allowing immediate containment without moving the vehicle over long distances or waiting for specialist tanks.

2. Targeted water mist technology

Unlike brute-force submersion, these units use high-efficiency water mist suppression systems.

Fine water droplets rapidly absorb heat and cool the battery casing, suppressing flames and preventing escalation.

Water is applied directly to the risk zone, minimising waste and environmental runoff.

3. Continuous suppression with water recycling

Advanced units incorporate recycling sumps and filtration systems, allowing for continual suppression without requiring thousands of litres of clean water.

Contaminated water is captured, filtered, and reused within the sealed system – protecting the environment and drastically reducing disposal costs.

4. Sealed and safe transport

Unlike submersion tanks, water suppression containment units are built to comply with ADR regulations, meaning they are legal and safe to transport hazardous goods.

The vehicle remains sealed within the unit – under suppression and observation – during its journey to a secure facility.

This reduces the need for on-site firefighting and protects recovery operators from toxic exposure.

5. Supporting ESG goals

With governments and industries focusing increasingly on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards, submersion methods stand in stark contrast to sustainability goals.

Water suppression containment offers a cleaner, more sustainable, and auditable solution, reducing environmental impact and aligning with waste reduction strategies.

The industry needs a shift in thinking

Emergency services, recovery companies, insurance providers, and transport agencies must move away from improvised submersion tactics and embrace engineered solutions.

What we need is not more water – but better strategy.

Submersion tactics were born from necessity during the early days of EV fires when no better options existed.

But times have changed. Technology has evolved.

The dangers of submersion – environmental contamination, inefficient suppression, re-ignition risk, and legal liability – now far outweigh the benefits.

Water suppression containment units offer a scalable, mobile, and environmentally responsible method for lithium-ion battery recovery and containment.

They protect people, property, and ecosystems – while delivering operational efficiency and compliance.

Final thought

As electric vehicles continue to dominate our roads, the incidents involving lithium-ion batteries will only increase.

We cannot afford to rely on outdated or harmful tactics.

It is time the industry recognises that submersion is not a solution – it’s a liability.

Water suppression containment is not only the best option.

It is the only responsible option.

Fire-containers.com

Crew evacuates cargo ship carrying 800 electric vehicles near Alaska after firefighting system failure

by Breaking NewsFire SuppressionPorts & MaritimeSafety

Cargo ship carrying electric vehicles catches fire off Alaska

A fire broke out on the cargo ship Morning Midas while it was transporting 3,000 vehicles from China to Mexico, including 800 electric vehicles, according to AP News.

The fire began Tuesday on a deck loaded with electric vehicles while the vessel was in the North Pacific Ocean, about 300 miles southwest of Adak Island, Alaska.

The 22 crew members aboard were forced to abandon the ship after firefighting systems failed to control the blaze.

They evacuated into a lifeboat and were rescued by a nearby vessel, the Cosco Hellas, the U.S. Coast Guard confirmed.

Emergency response and rescue operation

The U.S. Coast Guard reported that it deployed aircrews to Adak Island and dispatched a vessel to the scene.

Rear Admiral Megan Dean, commander of the Coast Guard’s Seventeenth District, said in a statement that the immediate search and rescue mission had concluded.

Rear Admiral Dean said: “We are grateful for the selfless actions of the three nearby vessels who assisted in the response and the crew of motor vessel Cosco Hellas, who helped save 22 lives.”

Zodiac Maritime, the ship’s London-based management company, confirmed that firefighting efforts were initiated onboard but failed to bring the fire under control.

The company stated: “The relevant authorities have been notified, and we are working closely with emergency responders with a tug being deployed to support salvage and firefighting operations.

“Our priorities are to ensure the continued safety of the crew and protect the marine environment.”

Ongoing investigation and vessel status

As of Wednesday afternoon, the U.S. Coast Guard reported that smoke continued to emanate from the vessel.

It added that the fire’s status remained unclear.

Zodiac Maritime is coordinating with response teams to assess the condition of the vessel and develop a recovery plan.

The Morning Midas was built in 2006, is 600 feet long, and sails under a Liberian flag.

It departed Yantai, China, on 26 May, and was en route to the Pacific port of Lazaro Cardenas in Mexico.

Broader context on shipping safety

The incident follows a similar case in 2023 when a ship carrying 3,000 vehicles, including 500 electric vehicles, caught fire en route from Germany to Singapore.

That fire resulted in one fatality and caused extensive damage, prompting the Dutch Safety Board to call for stronger emergency response measures on North Sea shipping routes.

Concerns have been raised over the risks associated with electric vehicles and other cargo transported by sea.

More than 80% of international trade by volume is shipped by sea, with many modern cargo vessels exceeding 300 metres in length.

Ship fire off Alaska: Cargo vessel crew evacuated: Summary

A cargo ship caught fire off the coast of Alaska on Tuesday while transporting 3,000 vehicles.

The ship was carrying 800 electric vehicles on board.

The vessel, Morning Midas, was located 300 miles southwest of Adak Island.

The fire originated from a deck loaded with electric vehicles.

The crew attempted to control the fire using the onboard fire suppression system.

They were unsuccessful and abandoned ship.

All 22 crew members were rescued by the merchant ship Cosco Hellas.

The ship is managed by Zodiac Maritime, based in London.

Zodiac Maritime confirmed a tug is being sent for salvage efforts.

The U.S. Coast Guard dispatched aircrews and a vessel to the scene.

Smoke was still visible from the ship as of Wednesday afternoon.

The vessel was en route from Yantai, China, to Lazaro Cardenas, Mexico.

The ship was built in 2006 and sails under a Liberian flag.

Rear Admiral Megan Dean praised the rescue efforts.

The fire is being compared to a 2023 North Sea incident involving electric vehicles.

Shipping industry experts are examining marine fire risks related to vehicle transport.

Fire blankets may pose explosion risk during electric vehicle fires, warns NFPA and UL

by ActiveFeatured NewsResearchSafety

Research finds fire blankets may trap explosive gases during battery fires

The NFPA and UL Research Institutes have reported that using fire blankets during electric vehicle fires with battery involvement may increase explosion risk.

According to a joint notice from the Fire Protection Research Foundation (FPRF) and the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), fire blankets can eliminate open flames but may trap flammable gases underneath.

The notice warned that gases accumulating beneath the blanket during battery thermal runaway could ignite explosively if oxygen is reintroduced.

Fire blankets linked to confined gas build-up in experiments

The FPRF reported that during controlled testing, fire blankets used to cover burning electric vehicles succeeded in cutting off flames by limiting oxygen flow.

However, battery thermal runaway continued even after the flames were extinguished, releasing flammable gases into the space beneath the blanket.

The Foundation stated that in some trials, this created an explosion hazard for nearby responders when the confined gases mixed with fresh air.

Four suppression methods assessed in current FPRF project

The FPRF is analysing firefighting strategies through its ongoing research project titled Assessment of EV Firefighting Tactics, Tools and the Impact on Stranded Energy.

The Foundation explained that recent testing compared the use of standard hose streams (with and without added agents), fire blankets, and firefighting appliances on electric vehicle fires.

Preliminary findings will be presented at the NFPA Conference & Expo on 16 June 2025 in Las Vegas, and full results will be published later this year at nfpa.org/foundation.

FSRI conducting parallel studies on EV fire suppression

The FSRI is independently studying battery fire hazards and suppression techniques under its Fire Safety of Batteries and Electric Vehicles programme.

According to the Institute, it is evaluating hose streams, under-vehicle water nozzles, and fire blankets as control measures in confirmed battery pack fire incidents.

The FSRI stated that analysis of video footage and performance data is ongoing, with findings to be released later in 2025 at fsri.org.

Focus remains on firefighter safety during EV incidents

The FPRF said that its research aims to support safer incident response procedures for EV fires by identifying effective tactics and understanding the risks of re-ignition and gas build-up.

The FSRI added that its work is directed at enabling better control strategies and reducing hazards for emergency responders.

Both organisations emphasised that no suppression method is without risk, and current findings should inform future training and operational guidance.

NFPA warns of fire blanket hazard in EV fire suppression: Summary

The NFPA reported that fire blankets used during electric vehicle battery fires may pose an explosion risk.

This risk arises from the accumulation of unburned flammable gases beneath the blanket.

The Fire Protection Research Foundation and the Fire Safety Research Institute issued a joint notice on 2 June 2025.

They warned that introducing air into this gas buildup could cause ignition.

The warning is based on ongoing research into EV firefighting tactics and suppression tools.

The FPRF tested four approaches: hose streams with and without additives, fire blankets, and firefighting appliances.

Preliminary results will be presented at the NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas on 16 June 2025.

A full report will follow in autumn 2025 at nfpa.org/foundation.

The FSRI is conducting separate experiments under its own battery safety research project.

Its tests included standard and under-vehicle water application and fire blankets.

The FSRI will publish its findings later in 2025 at fsri.org.

Both organisations aim to improve responder safety and inform tactical decisions.

Prosol UK fire blanket passes new EV fire safety standard

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionProducts

Fire Cloak passes DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 test in UK

Prosol UK has reported that its Fire Cloak EV fire limitation blanket has passed all requirements of the DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 testing framework.

The company said the DIN standard was published in Germany in November 2024 and is the first regulated specification focused on fire blankets for electric vehicles.

According to Prosol UK, the certification confirms that Fire Cloak has met detailed requirements for loop strap design, flame resistance, strength testing, and thermal resistance up to 1,000°C.

The company stated that it has advocated for the creation of such a standard and welcomed the chance to test its product against the defined benchmarks.

DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 standard requirements

Prosol UK explained that the DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 introduces strict criteria for the design, performance and usability of fire blankets intended for EV incidents.

According to the company, requirements include clearly marked loop straps, mechanical stability testing, centreline identification, and performance validation at high temperatures.

The standard also requires fire blankets to be PFAS-free, include batch tracking and be usable on wet or dry vehicles by no more than two people within 30 seconds.

It stated that certification must include documented and visual evidence of all test outcomes and expert opinions confirming product suitability for EV use.

Fire Cloak tested in multiple fire resistance scenarios

The company noted that it had already conducted various third-party fire resistance tests prior to the DIN standard’s release.

Prosol UK listed several tests in which the Fire Cloak passed, including BS 476 Parts 6 and 7 (achieving Class 0), ASTM D6413, NFPA 701, and FMVSS 302.

It added that the Fire Cloak withstood 1,000°C for 90 minutes during an indicative furnace test based on BS476 Part 22 and achieved A2, s1, d0 under EN ISO 13501-1:2018.

Standard aims to improve safety in EV fire situations

According to Prosol UK, the purpose of DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 is to provide assurance to responders, technicians and the public when dealing with lithium-ion battery incidents.

The company said that standardised testing helps build trust in product performance and improves the quality of emergency tools available on the market.

It also stated that it will continue to work with safety experts and regulators to share knowledge and improve safety outcomes in EV-related fire incidents.

Fire blanket passes DIN SPEC 91489 testing for EV fire safety: Summary

Prosol UK announced its Fire Cloak EV fire blanket has passed DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11.

The DIN standard is the first regulated test for EV fire blankets.

It includes strict requirements for strap placement, flame resistance, strength, and usability.

Fire Cloak met all criteria, including thermal resistance up to 1,000°C.

Tests include EN ISO 13501-1, FMVSS 302, and BS476 Part 22.

Prosol UK conducted additional third-party testing prior to certification.

DIN approval requires physical testing and documentation of all results.

The company stated it supports efforts to improve safety in lithium-ion battery fires.

DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 was developed in Germany and released in November 2024.

Prosol UK confirmed it will continue engaging with regulators and industry experts.

Fire risks in EVs: battery materials, fire protection and regulatory insights

by Featured NewsSafety

Research examines causes of fire risks in EVs

IDTechEx has reported on the materials and strategies being used to reduce fire risks in electric vehicles, with thermal runaway, battery chemistry and regulation identified as key areas of concern.

The research includes data from multiple reports, such as Fire Protection Materials for EV Batteries 2025–2035: Markets, Trends, and Forecasts, and was presented by IDTechEx experts at the Plastics in Electric & Autonomous Vehicles Conference 2025 – SPE Automotive Division.

The company said that various types of failures in EV battery systems, including wiring faults and defects in specific cells, have previously led to vehicle recalls.

According to IDTechEx, these incidents, along with the financial implications for manufacturers, are contributing to demand for more effective fire protection materials.

The organisation stated that thermal runaway can occur not only when driving, but also during charging, in the event of a crash or while the vehicle is parked.

Material technologies being used to mitigate thermal hazards

IDTechEx reported that aerogels are increasingly used to limit heat transfer between battery cells due to their low thermal conductivity and density.

Other materials identified by the organisation as beneficial for thermal protection include foams, ceramics and mica.

Mica, according to IDTechEx, is easier to apply than aerogels or ceramics and can be installed in low-cost sheets that still offer electrical insulation benefits.

The organisation added that while density is higher for mica-based materials, their practicality and affordability make them widely adopted in various battery designs.

Battery chemistries impact EV fire safety

IDTechEx stated that solid-state batteries can improve safety by replacing flammable liquid electrolytes with thermally stable alternatives.

The company explained that this results in better thermal dissipation, fewer hot spots and reduced heat generation in the event of external heating failures.

IDTechEx added that sodium-ion batteries can be stored at 0V, have lower heat release rates than lithium-ion cells and have shown no flames or ignition during nail penetration testing.

The organisation said that lithium-ion batteries using solid-state electrolytes could potentially match the safety of sodium-ion technologies.

Global regulations lag behind safety innovation

IDTechEx reported that while China has a five-minute early warning requirement for thermal runaway events in EVs, this will be increased to a two-hour delay before visible fire or explosion from July 2026.

The company said that no other global regulations currently impose such time-based requirements at the battery pack level.

IDTechEx expects other regions to introduce similar rules eventually, but noted that implementation is likely to be slower and less strict.

It added that some industries, such as aerospace, apply stricter standards for battery safety than those currently seen in the automotive sector.

Fire risks in EVs: battery materials, fire protection and regulatory insights: Summary

IDTechEx has published findings on the use of materials to mitigate fire risks in electric vehicles.

The research identifies thermal runaway as a persistent hazard during driving, charging, collisions and stationary periods.

IDTechEx reported that battery recalls and financial costs have increased focus on improving safety materials.

Aerogels, foams, ceramics and mica are among the thermal protection materials examined in the report.

Mica is noted for its cost-effectiveness and electrical insulation properties.

Solid-state batteries are identified by IDTechEx as offering improved thermal stability.

Sodium-ion batteries can be transported at 0V and may not ignite during penetration incidents.

China requires a five-minute thermal runaway warning and will raise this to two hours in 2026.

IDTechEx states that no other regions currently have similar mandates.

The organisation predicts global regulations will eventually become stricter.

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.

Allianz UK highlights EV battery fire risks for motor traders

by Featured NewsSafety

Allianz warns motor traders of EV battery fire hazards

Allianz UK has advised motor traders to be aware of the risks associated with electric vehicle (EV) battery fires.

The insurer noted that lithium-ion batteries, used in EVs, present a fire hazard when damaged, improperly stored, or mishandled, leading to incidents with severe financial and structural consequences.

Research, including findings from Thatcham Research, indicates that EVs are generally less likely to catch fire than petrol or diesel vehicles.

However, when fires do occur, they can be more intense due to the nature of lithium-ion battery combustion.

Allianz has reported cases where battery-related fires have led to extensive property damage.

In two recent incidents, EV battery fires caused insurance claims exceeding £5 million and £1.5 million respectively.

Both incidents involved faulty batteries that had been removed from vehicles and were awaiting manufacturer collection.

Challenges posed by lithium-ion battery fires

Lithium-ion batteries can enter a state known as ‘thermal runaway’, where internal chemical reactions cause uncontrolled heat generation.

This can result in fires that are difficult to extinguish and may reignite days or weeks after the initial event.

Olivia Baker, head of motor trade at Allianz UK, commented: “The severity and financial impact of lithium-ion battery fires are considerable.

Due to the chemical reactions and toxic material that are left behind, these fires can render buildings beyond economical repair.

“Understanding the risks and implementing effective prevention and management strategies are crucial to safeguarding businesses and ensuring the safety of employees, though thankfully at the moment the total number of claims is relatively low.”

Risks beyond electric vehicle batteries

Allianz also noted that lithium-ion batteries in portable power tools can present a fire risk.

In one case, a tyre fitting centre experienced a fire resulting in a £250,000 claim after a power tool ignited while charging.

Motor traders handling EVs may face additional risks when dealing with vehicles subject to recalls, battery defects, or advisory notices.

Businesses with high vehicle turnover, such as repair centres and sales dealerships, could be particularly affected.

Franchised dealers and breakdown recovery services are also exposed to risks when diagnosing or transporting EVs with potential battery issues.

Recommendations for motor traders

Allianz advises motor traders to take several precautions to reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires.

The insurer recommends:

  • Implementing thorough inspection protocols for damaged batteries.
  • Ensuring safe storage and charging practices.
  • Collaborating with insurers and brokers to improve risk prevention strategies.

Allianz provides risk management guidance to brokers and policyholders to help businesses reduce hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries.

Risks of lithium-ion battery fires in the motor trade sector: Summary

Allianz UK has warned motor traders about the risks associated with lithium-ion battery fires in electric vehicles.

The insurer highlighted that while EVs are less likely to catch fire than traditional vehicles, the intensity of battery fires presents challenges for businesses.

Two recent cases resulted in insurance claims exceeding £5 million and £1.5 million due to faulty batteries stored at motor trade premises.

Allianz also reported a £250,000 claim linked to a fire caused by a lithium-ion power tool battery.

Thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries can lead to severe fires that are difficult to extinguish.

Allianz recommends that motor traders implement strict inspection, storage, and charging procedures.

The insurer provides risk management support to brokers and policyholders to mitigate these hazards.

New fire safety rules for EV chargers create installation challenges in Queensland

by Featured NewsSafety

New fire safety regulations for EV chargers

New fire safety regulations in Queensland and New South Wales are posing challenges for property developers as they make it difficult to install electric vehicle (EV) chargers in apartment buildings.

As reported by The Driven, these rules require significant fire protection measures, such as sprinklers and smoke management systems, for car parks housing electric cars.

The new guidelines, issued by Fire and Rescue NSW in late April, classify electric cars as “special hazards” and recommend additional requirements, including keeping vehicles and chargers outside buildings and installing advanced fire sprinkler systems and smoke detection alarms.

Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell clarified that these measures are not required for typical home garages but for buildings with underground car parks.

Conflicting guidance on EV chargers

The new guidelines seem to contradict the National Construction Code, prompting experts to call for urgent clarification to avoid high costs and long-term consequences.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services issued similar advice, including the provision of air-handling systems.

Gary Rake, CEO of the Australian Building Codes Board, stated: “The presence of electric vehicles in a car park is now common enough to be reasonably ‘expected’ and ‘usual’ and therefore not the original intent of the special hazards provisions when they were written.”

He noted that the conditions should only apply if there is an unusual combination of electric cars and specific building features.

Impact on property developers

The changing rules are affecting property developers, architects, designers, and engineers working on new apartment buildings.

A residential developer mentioned that electric vehicle chargers are being removed from some plans due to confusing guidance and increasing demands.

“It would add a significant amount of cost because those car spaces would suddenly need to have a whole lot more infrastructure than they would otherwise have had,” the developer said.

Fred Tuckwell, chairman of the Owners Corporation Network, highlighted that more apartment residents are requesting EV chargers in their car parks but are frustrated by the lack of clear regulations.

He stated: “These rules are making it almost impossible. If we have to comply with the NSW Fire and Rescue rules, this will blow EV charging in private buildings out of the window because of the massive expense.”

Fire safety concerns and statistics

The agency responsible for collecting data on electric vehicle fires in Australia, EV FireSafe, has verified only six EV fires to date, none of which were related to battery charging or spontaneous explosions.

Emma Sutcliffe, CEO of EV FireSafe, mentioned that the greatest fire risk to electric cars follows damage to their batteries.

She noted: “The four leading causes of EV fires are road traffic collisions, submersion in floodwaters, vehicles on recall and vehicles exposed to another fire.”

Tuckwell added: “Why is it that people are asking for EVs to be treated as a special hazard when petrol and diesel vehicles are 10 to 20 times more likely to catch fire?

“To impose huge financial penalties and difficulties, including forcing people to park their car outside, is counter to common sense and to what the real situation is in the real world.”