NFCC demands action over lithium-ion batteries as use outpaces safety standards

by Featured NewsSafety

Lithium-ion batteries driving new UK fire risks

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has warned that rising use of lithium-ion batteries in UK homes is outpacing current product safety standards and called for urgent government action to address the resulting fire risks.

In a statement issued on Wednesday 19 November 2025, NFCC said lithium-ion battery fires can be explosive, spread quickly and produce toxic gases with a high risk of reignition.

The organisation warned that these incidents place the public, firefighters, property and the wider environment at increased risk.

NFCC has published new recommendations aimed at strengthening safety across lithium-ion-battery-powered consumer products and related energy technologies.

The council wants ministers to use existing and new regulatory powers to tighten product safety rules, including for items sold online.

It is also calling for better systems to dispose of batteries safely and new investment in research to help fire and rescue services manage these incidents.

NFCC said a coordinated national public information campaign is needed so that people understand how misuse, unsafe charging and product modification can raise the likelihood of lithium-ion battery fires.

Data on growing e-bike and e-scooter fire risks

NFCC reported that lithium-ion batteries are now embedded in a wide range of everyday products, including electric toothbrushes, tools, toys, mobile phones, tablets, laptops and vapes.

They also power personal light electric vehicles (PLEVs) such as e-bikes and e-scooters, as well as electric vehicles (EVs).

While NFCC described these technologies as important for a low-carbon future, it stressed that fires involving lithium-ion batteries are complex, produce toxic and potentially explosive vapours and carry a serious risk of reignition.

According to Prevention of Future Death reports cited by NFCC, at least six fatalities since 2023 have been linked to e-bike and e-scooter fires.

Between January 2021 and September 2023, a search of free-text entries in the Government’s Incident Recording System found 139 fire records that mentioned e-bikes and 124 that referred to e-scooters.

The Government has acknowledged that this dataset may be incomplete, and NFCC believes the true number of lithium-ion battery incidents is higher.

London Fire Brigade attended 179 fires involving e-bikes or e-scooters in 2023 and in 2024 the Office for Product Safety and Standards received reports of 211 such fires, close to half of which occurred indoors.

NFCC noted that reporting to the Office for Product Safety and Standards is voluntary, so these figures are likely to be an underestimate.

Product Safety and Metrology Act powers welcomed

NFCC has linked its lithium-ion battery concerns to the new Product Safety and Metrology Act 2025, which has recently received Royal Assent.

The act gives Government powers to introduce enforceable safety rules for products such as e-bikes and e-scooters, including items sold through online marketplaces.

NFCC said these powers could be used to reduce the fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries if they are implemented promptly and effectively.

The council welcomed the legislation but said urgent work is still needed to close existing safety gaps and ensure the powers are used to protect people and firefighters.

NFCC is also asking policymakers to recognise wider fire safety issues linked to emerging energy technologies beyond lithium-ion batteries, covering the full range of new storage and charging systems.

It argued that regulatory frameworks need to be flexible and able to adapt at pace as energy technology changes.

NFCC recommendations on Lithium-ion batteries and wider energy risks

In its Fire Risks in Energy Technologies Position Statements, NFCC set out a series of actions it wants Government and regulators to take.

It called for mandatory product safety rules and third-party testing for personal light electric vehicles.

NFCC also wants online marketplaces to be regulated so that all lithium-ion battery products sold in the UK must meet designated safety standards.

The council recommended a safe, accessible disposal regime for lithium-ion batteries, including damaged units, to reduce the chance of unsafe storage or handling.

It urged updates to Building Regulations guidance so that the fire risks from storing and charging energy technologies in homes and public places are fully addressed.

NFCC said fire and rescue service advice should be considered and responded to when services are consulted on fire safety risks, including comments under the Fire Safety Order during Building Regulations processes.

The council has asked for national public awareness campaigns on the safe use and disposal of lithium-ion-battery-powered products and for ongoing research funding to improve firefighting tactics and training for energy technology incidents.

It also called for better coordination across Government and regular consultation with fire safety specialists to aid long-term risk planning.

NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan said the growing prevalence of lithium-ion batteries in homes is reshaping the work of fire and rescue services and requires stronger protections from Government and industry.

Phil Garrigan, National Fire Chiefs Council Chair, said: “Lithium-ion batteries are now everywhere in our homes – powering the phones in our pockets, the laptops on our desks, e-scooters, and cordless appliances we use every day.

“But these technologies must not come at the cost of public and firefighter safety.

“The fire risks linked to these familiar products are evolving far faster than the safety standards designed to protect us.

“When things go wrong with lithium-ion batteries the consequences can be devastating, and tragically, lives have already been lost.

“Fire and rescue services are the first line of defence when these batteries fail, facing fires that are incredibly complex and dangerous to tackle.

“They need stronger protection, clear standards, and better tools from government and industry to continue safeguarding people and property as these batteries become ever more common in our homes.”

How NFCC’s lithium-ion battery position could shape practice

NFCC’s call for mandatory product safety rules and third-party testing for personal light electric vehicles could influence how fire and rescue chiefs and senior officers assess risk from e-bikes and e-scooters in their areas.

The focus on regulating online marketplaces and requiring designated safety standards for lithium-ion battery products is directly relevant for standards and certification bodies that advise on conformity and enforcement.

Requests for updated Building Regulations guidance on storing and charging energy technologies in homes and public places could affect building services engineers and facility managers who specify locations for charging points and storage areas.

The emphasis on safe, accessible disposal routes for damaged or end-of-life batteries could change procedures for risk assessors, fire-protection contractors and electrical contractors who frequently manage equipment removal and waste streams.

NFCC’s call for investment in research on firefighting tactics and training for energy technology incidents could shape future work by training officers and instructors as operational guidance for lithium-ion battery fires develops.

Passenger burned as power bank ignites in Melbourne Qantas lounge

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyIncidentsSafety

Qantas reopens Melbourne lounge after power bank battery fire

Qantas said it temporarily closed its business class lounge at Melbourne airport after a power bank exploded in a passenger’s pocket.

The incident happened on Thursday morning (6 November) in the international terminal, The Guardian reported.

The man’s power bank overheated and ignited, burning his leg and fingers and filling the lounge with smoke.

About 150 people were evacuated as a precaution, Qantas said.

The passenger was treated by paramedics before being taken to hospital for further assessment.

Airline confirms lounge has since reopened

Qantas said it worked with Melbourne airport staff to ventilate and clean the lounge before reopening it.

A company spokesperson said: “We worked with the Melbourne airport to clean the lounge and it has since reopened.”

The company confirmed operations returned to normal after the inspection and cleaning were completed.

Previous lithium-ion battery incidents on flights

The Guardian reported that in July Virgin Australia reviewed its battery policies after a fire broke out on a Sydney to Hobart flight.

That incident was believed to have been caused by a power bank in a passenger’s carry-on bag.

Many airlines, including Qantas, have since tightened restrictions on lithium-ion batteries used in devices such as mobility equipment and portable chargers.

The measures aim to reduce the risk of overheating or combustion during flights.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

Incidents involving portable lithium-ion batteries remain a central concern for aviation fire safety specialists, airport facility managers and regulatory authorities.

Thermal runaway in small consumer devices can cause ignition, toxic smoke and localised burns even outside aircraft cabins.

Airport fire and rescue teams continue to adapt procedures for confined-area incidents involving battery fires in lounges and terminals.

Airlines’ evolving restrictions on battery-powered items highlight the growing operational need for consistent risk assessment and public awareness measures.

Such cases reinforce the importance of lithium-ion fire behaviour knowledge among first responders, maintenance personnel and safety officers responsible for airport operations.

Lisbon to host lithium-ion battery safety experts in November

by EventsFeatured NewsFire EngineeringSafetyTraining

Sfpe symposium to address lithium-ion battery fire safety

Event announced for Lisbon in November

The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) has announced that it will hold the Engineering Solutions Symposium: Addressing European Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Safety Challenges in Lisbon, Portugal, from 11 to 13 November 2025.

According to SFPE, the event will focus on lithium-ion battery fire risks across sectors including consumer electronics, e-bikes, electric vehicles, and battery energy storage systems.

The organisation said the symposium is intended to bring together researchers, engineers, manufacturers, insurers, facility managers, and first responders to discuss risk management, regulatory requirements, and design solutions.

It added that the three-day programme will include technical presentations, panel discussions, and opportunities for interactive dialogue.

Focus on lithium-ion battery hazards

SFPE explained that lithium-ion batteries are among the most pressing fire safety hazards in the sector, requiring updated approaches to system design, emergency response, and regulation.

The organisation said that delegates will examine battery hazard fundamentals, the mechanics of thermal runaway, and how fire safety codes are adapting to new risks.

It added that the event will also address mitigation strategies for high-risk applications, particularly in e-mobility, electric vehicles, and energy storage.

Learning objectives

SFPE outlined that the symposium’s learning objectives will include examining fire safety implications of new battery technologies and understanding thermal runaway.

It stated that further objectives will cover design and regulatory issues for energy storage systems, as well as the use of diagnostics and monitoring tools in safety management.

The organisation added that discussions will also assess the impact of battery fires on infrastructure and emergency response.

It said that the programme aims to promote collaboration between industry sectors to build safer battery ecosystems.

International committee

According to SFPE, the programme is guided by an international committee of experts.

The symposium will be co-chaired by Adam Barowy and Guillermo Rein, PhD.

The organisation explained that the committee includes researchers and practitioners representing academia, industry, and government agencies.

Site visit

SFPE confirmed that the symposium will close with a site visit.

It said that participants will tour a new data centre in Lisbon featuring a lithium-ion battery backup system.

The organisation explained that the visit is designed to provide attendees with a first-hand view of how safety systems are integrated into such facilities.

Registration details

SFPE reported that the symposium will be hosted at the Sheraton Lisboa Hotel & Spa.

The organisation added that early-bird registration discounts are available until 10 October 2025.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The symposium provides fire and safety professionals with the opportunity to engage directly with current research on lithium-ion battery fire hazards.

The event highlights emerging risks associated with electric vehicles, e-mobility, and energy storage systems, which are increasingly relevant to operational and regulatory work in the sector.

It also offers practical insights into hazard assessment, code development, and mitigation strategies that can be applied in professional practice.

SFPE symposium to address lithium-ion battery fire safety: Summary

The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) will hold a symposium on lithium-ion battery fire safety in Lisbon from 11 to 13 November 2025.

The event will focus on risks in consumer electronics, e-bikes, electric vehicles, and battery energy storage systems.

SFPE said the symposium will include technical sessions, panel discussions, and interactive dialogue.

The organisation explained that learning objectives cover thermal runaway, system design, regulations, diagnostics, and infrastructure impacts.

The programme is led by co-chairs Adam Barowy and Guillermo Rein, PhD, supported by an international committee.

The event will conclude with a site visit to a Lisbon data centre with a lithium-ion battery backup system.

The Sheraton Lisboa Hotel & Spa will host the symposium.

Early-bird registration is open until 10 October 2025.

Fire Prevention Week 2025 to focus on lithium-ion battery safety in the home

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured NewsSafety

NFPA announces battery safety theme for Fire Prevention Week 2025

The National Fire Protection Association has named lithium-ion battery safety as the focus of Fire Prevention Week 2025, according to a statement issued by the organisation on 10 June.

The official theme will be “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home”, and will run from 5 to 11 October 2025.

NFPA explained that lithium-ion batteries are used in everyday household products, including phones, tablets, e-bikes, and power tools.

The campaign aims to raise public awareness of fire risks when batteries are purchased, charged, or disposed of incorrectly.

Lorraine Carli, vice president of Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA, said: “Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and they’re just about everywhere.”

She added: “Making sure the public knows how to handle them safely is critical to minimizing the potential risks they present.”

Public advised to buy only listed and tested battery products

NFPA stated that consumers should prioritise safety when purchasing battery-powered devices by checking for a listing mark from a recognised testing laboratory.

It said some products sold in stores or online may not meet basic safety standards.

This could increase the risk of fire or explosion.

NFPA advised consumers to research battery-powered products carefully and avoid those lacking certification.

The organisation noted that using devices that meet safety standards can reduce the likelihood of overheating or ignition.

Guidance on safe charging practices at home

NFPA outlined safe charging instructions to reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery incidents in domestic settings.

It recommended using only the manufacturer’s provided or approved charging cables.

Devices should be charged on hard surfaces, not on beds, couches, or other soft materials, which could trap heat and lead to fire.

Overcharging was also identified as a hazard.

The organisation advised unplugging or removing batteries once fully charged to reduce overheating.

Following manufacturers’ instructions is a key part of preventing battery-related fires, NFPA stated.

Proper disposal and recycling of batteries

NFPA cautioned against disposing of lithium-ion batteries in household waste or standard recycling bins.

It said batteries discarded in this way may ignite and cause fires during handling or transport.

Instead, NFPA directed the public to use designated battery recycling facilities.

The organisation pointed to www.call2recycle.org as a tool for finding nearby drop-off locations.

Safe recycling helps prevent incidents and supports broader efforts to reduce fire risk linked to battery waste.

Fire Prevention Week remains longest-running fire safety campaign in the US

According to NFPA, Fire Prevention Week has been observed each October for over a century and is the oldest public health campaign of its kind in the United States.

The campaign involves fire departments, schools, and community groups sharing safety messages nationwide.

Each year, Fire Prevention Week highlights one theme relevant to reducing household fire risk.

The 2025 focus on lithium-ion batteries reflects their widespread use and associated hazards.

NFPA provides resources at fpw.org, sparky.org and sparkyschoolhouse.org to support outreach efforts to families, educators and local services.

Fire Prevention Week 2025: lithium-ion batteries in your home: Summary

The National Fire Protection Association has announced the theme for Fire Prevention Week 2025.

The theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home”.

The campaign will run from 5 to 11 October 2025.

The focus is on helping the public understand how to use lithium-ion batteries safely.

NFPA said many everyday items are powered by lithium-ion batteries.

It warned that incorrect use can lead to overheating, fire, or explosion.

Consumers are advised to buy only listed and tested battery products.

Charging devices on hard surfaces and following instructions is recommended.

Overcharging should be avoided to prevent fire.

NFPA said batteries must not be disposed of in regular bins.

It directed the public to use battery recycling facilities.

Further information is available at fpw.org, sparky.org and sparkyschoolhouse.org.

Lithium-ion battery fire risks addressed through U.S. House legislation

by Featured NewsSafety

U.S. House approves new consumer safety standards for lithium-ion batteries

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has reported that the U.S. House of Representatives has passed H.R. 973, the Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-ion Batteries Act, by a vote of 365 to 42.

The bill directs the Consumer Product Safety Commission to issue mandatory federal safety standards for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in micromobility devices, including e-bikes and scooters.

The legislation aims to address an increase in fires caused by these batteries, which have been linked to safety hazards across the United States.

Fire service leaders support lithium-ion battery regulation

IAFC President and Board Chair Fire Chief Josh Waldo welcomed the passage of H.R. 973 by the House of Representatives.

Waldo said: “I am thankful that the U.S. House of Representatives has voted overwhelmingly to pass the Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act (H.R. 973).

“I thank Representative Ritchie Torres, House Speaker Mike Johnson, Chairman Brett Guthrie, and Ranking Member Pallone for their leadership in passing this critical legislation to set fire safety standards for lithium-ion batteries and their charging elements in e-mobility devices.

“We look forward to working with our allies to pass this legislation in the Senate.”

According to the IAFC, the next step for the legislation will be consideration in the Senate, where a companion bill, S. 389, has already cleared the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation.

Scope and implementation of the battery safety legislation

The legislation requires the Consumer Product Safety Commission to finalise federal standards within 180 days of enactment.

It specifies the adoption of the ANSI/CAN/UL 2271 standard for batteries used in light electric vehicles, ANSI/CAN/UL 2849 for e-bike systems, and ANSI/CA/UL 2272 for personal e-mobility devices.

The Commission is instructed to apply these standards only to consumer products as defined under existing consumer product safety law.

Future revisions to these standards must be reported to the Commission, and if no objection is raised within 90 days, the updates will take effect after 180 days.

Reporting requirements and long-term oversight

The bill also requires the Commission to submit a report to Congress within five years of enactment.

This report must include data on fires, explosions and other hazards linked to lithium-ion batteries in micromobility devices.

The report must specify the source of the information, details of the battery and product models involved, and whether the batteries complied with the mandated standards, if known.

It must also include information on the manufacturer and country of origin of the batteries when available.

Lithium-ion battery fire risks addressed through U.S. House legislation: Summary

The International Association of Fire Chiefs reported that the U.S. House passed H.R. 973 with bipartisan support.

The bill is titled the Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-ion Batteries Act.

It mandates federal safety standards for lithium-ion batteries in micromobility devices.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission must implement these standards within 180 days.

Standards include ANSI/CAN/UL 2271, UL 2849 and UL 2272.

Future revisions to these standards will be treated as official safety rules unless objected to.

A companion Senate bill, S. 389, has passed committee and awaits full Senate consideration.

Fire Chief Josh Waldo, IAFC President and Board Chair, expressed support for the legislation.

The Act includes a requirement for the Commission to report on battery-related hazards within five years.

Reports must include sources, product and battery details, compliance status, and manufacturing information.

UK safety experts to discuss lithium-ion battery risks at Fire Safety Event

by EventsFeatured NewsSafety

Experts to examine lithium-ion battery safety regulations

S Jones Containers has announced it will host a panel seminar on lithium-ion battery safety regulations at the Fire Safety Event on Wednesday 9 April at the NEC in Birmingham.

The session will be led by Andrew Nicholls, Head of Conversions at S Jones Containers.

It will bring together experts from Warwick Manufacturing Group, Electrical Safety First, and the Fire Protection Association to discuss current gaps in UK legislation relating to the manufacture, storage and testing of lithium-ion batteries.

As electric vehicle use increases, the session will focus on the need for regulation that balances safe handling with continued innovation.

According to S Jones Containers, thermal runaway events during testing or use pose risks that current rules do not sufficiently address.

Warwick Manufacturing Group to share battery safety research

Dr Simon Jones, Principal Engineer at Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG), will join the panel discussion.

Dr Jones oversees the WMG Battery Safety Centre, which provides abuse testing services for industrial clients.

WMG is an academic department of the University of Warwick and part of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult.

Dr Jones has 30 years of experience in destructive testing and specialises in battery failure events such as thermal runaway.

His work includes research on improving the safety of battery technologies used in electric vehicles.

Electrical Safety First and Fire Protection Association to contribute insights

Giuseppe Capanna, Product Safety Engineer at Electrical Safety First, will also join the panel.

He has been involved in the organisation’s battery safety campaign, which aims to protect UK consumers from faulty lithium-ion products, including those used in e-bikes and e-scooters.

Chris Miles, Commercial Director at the Fire Protection Association, will contribute on behalf of the organisation.

According to the Fire Protection Association, there is limited understanding in the market of the full range of fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.

The organisation publishes industry guidance and carries out testing and research related to fire safety, including battery hazards.

Additional seminar planned for July battery expo

The Fire Safety Event runs from 8 to 10 April and is aimed at professionals and organisations working to maintain and improve fire safety standards.

S Jones Containers will exhibit throughout the event at stand 4/F106.

The seminar, titled Electric Revolution, Safety Evolution: Prioritising Battery Regulations, is scheduled for 10.15 to 10.45 on Wednesday 9 April in the Innovation and Compliance Theatre.

The company also plans to host a similar panel discussion at the Battery Cells & Systems Expo at the NEC on 9 July.

That session will cover battery safety and best practices in the industry.

UK safety experts to discuss lithium-ion battery risks at Fire Safety Event: Summary

S Jones Containers will host a panel seminar at the Fire Safety Event on 9 April 2025 at the NEC Birmingham.

The session will examine the current state of UK regulations on lithium-ion battery manufacturing, storage and testing.

Panel members include representatives from Warwick Manufacturing Group, Electrical Safety First and the Fire Protection Association.

Dr Simon Jones of WMG will share research from the WMG Battery Safety Centre.

Giuseppe Capanna of Electrical Safety First will speak about the group’s campaign on e-bike and e-scooter battery safety.

Chris Miles of the Fire Protection Association will discuss industry risk awareness.

The event aims to address concerns around thermal runaway and regulatory gaps.

The seminar will take place from 10.15 to 10.45 on 9 April in the Innovation and Compliance Theatre.

S Jones Containers will also present on battery safety at the Battery Cells & Systems Expo at the NEC in July.

Proposed battery safety bill to reshape UK’s e-mobility landscape

by Breaking NewsSafety

UK government proposes new safety bill for electric-powered vehicles

The UK government has introduced a significant legislative proposal, the Safety of Electric-Powered Micromobility Vehicles and Lithium-ion Batteries Bill.

This bill, if passed, will enact major regulatory changes for electric-powered vehicles like e-scooters and e-bikes, particularly those using secondary lithium-ion batteries.

Rising concerns over e-vehicle fires prompt legislative action

The bill emerges against a backdrop of increasing fire incidents involving e-scooters and e-bikes in England.

Statistics indicate a fourfold increase in fires caused by lithium-ion batteries in these vehicles since 2020, with 190 reported injuries and eight fatalities.

National Fire Chiefs Council, local fire and rescue services, and insurance companies have raised alarms about the risks associated with unregulated and unsafe use of secondary lithium-ion battery chargers.

FPA endorses the bill for enhanced safety

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has voiced its support for the bill, emphasizing its potential to mitigate the growing risks associated with lithium-ion battery fires.

George Edwardes, FPA’s Technical Director, highlighted the urgency for better regulation, calling for improved assurances from manufacturers regarding the safe use of these devices, clear warnings against unsafe disposal, and mandatory CE or UKCA marks on imported products.

Battery Safety Bill specifics: Safety standards and disposal regulations

The proposed bill stipulates that electric-powered micromobility vehicles or their secondary lithium-ion batteries cannot enter the UK market without assessment by a government-approved body.

Manufacturers must provide technical documentation and a declaration of conformity, and products must bear the CE or UKCA mark to demonstrate compliance with set standards.

Additionally, the bill mandates the Secretary of State to regulate the safe disposal of lithium batteries, including requiring manufacturers to warn about improper disposal practices.

IFSJ Comment

The Safety of Electric-Powered Micromobility Vehicles and Lithium-ion Batteries Bill represents a critical step forward in addressing the safety concerns surrounding the growing popularity of e-scooters and e-bikes.

Its focus on rigorous safety standards, mandatory compliance marks, and responsible disposal practices underscores the government’s commitment to public safety in the face of technological advancements.

The endorsement by the Fire Protection Association adds a layer of credibility and urgency to the bill, reflecting the broader concerns of fire safety experts and industry stakeholders.

If implemented effectively, this legislation could serve as a blueprint for other countries grappling with similar challenges posed by electric mobility devices.

London’s top burns unit raises concerns over lithium battery fires

by Featured NewsSafety

Chelsea and Westminster NHS Hospital burns unit, renowned as the largest unit in the South of England, is appealing to London residents to heed the Brigade’s advice on lithium battery safety following a series of serious burns resulting from e-bike and e-scooter fires.

Avoid blocking escape routes

The key recommendations from the Brigade focus on the importance of not obstructing escape routes with e-bikes and e-scooters.

Additionally, it emphasises the necessity of using the appropriate charger and battery for each vehicle.

Following these guidelines is crucial for minimising the risk of such incidents.

E-bike and e-scooter incidents: A rising concern

Sub Officer David Ardrey from Kensington fire station, after a recent visit to the Burns Unit, stated: “E-bike and e-scooter incidents are increasing, with our teams attending roughly every other day.”

He continued: “The frequency with which London’s premier Burns Unit confronts severe injuries from these fires is alarming.

“Proper storage of e-bikes and e-scooters away from fire escape routes is crucial.

“Often, blocked escape paths force individuals to confront the flames, leading to grave injuries.

“In the event of a fire, the best action is to alert emergency services immediately.”

With a surge in such burn injuries, the Brigade encourages e-bike and e-scooter users to be aware of the potential hazards when purchasing conversion kits online.

Additionally, they caution against the use of mismatched chargers and batteries.

Lithium battery fires: Impact on patients

Isabel Jones, a consultant specialising in Burns and Plastic Surgery at Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust, shared: “The injuries stemming from e-bike and e-scooter fires present a relatively new challenge.

“These burns are often deep and necessitate surgical intervention.”

She added: “The fast-paced spread of these fires means the injuries we treat are extensive and require prolonged hospital stays.

“The resultant scars can be permanent and severe.

“It is imperative that the public is educated on these risks, including the potential for toxic fumes.”

This year, London has witnessed at least 146 fires related to e-bikes and e-scooters, 121 of which specifically involved e-bikes.

These incidents have resulted in three fatalities and 58 injuries.

Economic pressures have driven some to seek cheaper alternatives, but this can heighten fire risks, especially when lacking the necessary expertise or opting for subpar batteries and incompatible chargers.

A victim’s experience

Roger Mityero, a 41-year-old resident of Tulse Hill, recounted his traumatic experience with an e-bike fire: “I had a mere two minutes to respond. The entire household was at risk from the rapidly spreading fire.

“My immediate response was to relocate the bike and open the front door.

“However, the ensuing explosion severely burned my left arm.”

For comprehensive safety guidelines, visit the Brigade’s ChargeSafe campaign.

IFSJ Comment

The regular incidents of e-bike and e-scooter fires, largely attributed to lithium battery malfunctions, underscores the urgent need for widespread public awareness and adherence to safety protocols.

The devastating consequences of these fires, as highlighted by professionals at the Chelsea and Westminster NHS Hospital burns unit, emphasise the risks associated with overlooking safety guidelines.

As the frequency of these incidents rises, it becomes paramount for users to be vigilant, informed, and proactive in mitigating potential threats.

Lithium-ion battery market projected to surge

by AmericasBreaking News

The Global Lithium-Ion Battery Market Expected to Witness Significant Growth, says Visiongain Report

Market overview and projection

According to the latest Visiongain report, the global Lithium-ion Battery Market, valued at US$108.0 billion in 2022, is anticipated to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.8% between 2023-2033.

Key drivers include increasing emphasis on sustainability and responsible sourcing, propelling shifts in lithium-ion battery usage, particularly in electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy systems.

Government policies favour lithium-ion battery market expansion

Around the globe, government regulations are fostering the adoption of EVs and renewable energy sources, Visionagain reports. The Norwegian government’s policy for zero-emission vehicles by 2025 led to a surge in EV sales, while the US federal government offers tax rebates for EV purchases.

China also has implemented measures to encourage the development of energy storage systems. These regulations, promoting the use of EVs and renewable energy, are expected to benefit market participants by boosting the demand for lithium-ion batteries.

COVID-19 impacts and opportunities

COVID-19 has had a mixed impact on the lithium-ion battery market, the report notes. While disruptions in international supply chains and reduced demand for EVs and consumer electronics posed challenges, new opportunities arose in the healthcare and energy storage sectors.

Despite market contractions, producers found new niches in medical devices, including ventilators and wearable health monitors. The pandemic also spurred the development of improved battery technologies with enhanced safety features.

Technological advancements propel market

Rapid technological advancements are driving market innovation. Companies such as Toyota, BMW, and Volkswagen are reportedly investing in developing solid-state batteries, offering improved performance and safety compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries.

Renewable energy sources spur lithium-ion battery demand

Visiongain notes the expansion of renewable energy sources as another strong driver. Lithium-ion batteries are crucial for energy storage, managing the intermittent energy production of solar and wind sources. Large-scale energy storage projects like the Tesla-owned Hornsdale Power Reserve and microgrids in isolated locations exemplify the role of lithium-ion batteries in renewable energy infrastructure.

Potential market opportunities

Energy storage systems present a promising opportunity for lithium-ion battery manufacturers. Companies including Tesla, LG Chem, and Panasonic are already capitalising on this trend, says the report.

The aviation industry also holds potential. With a rising interest in electric propulsion systems to cut emissions and improve fuel efficiency, the development of lithium-ion battery-powered electric aircraft is underway.

IFSJ Comment

The lithium-ion battery market is set for significant growth in the next decade, driven by technology, renewable energy, government policies, and emerging market opportunities. As governments and industries continue to prioritise sustainability and renewable energy, the demand for lithium-ion batteries is expected to soar, presenting a vibrant market landscape for participants.

Theme for Safety Stand Down campaign announced

by Featured NewsSafety

To help ensure firefighters’ safety when handling lithium-ion batteries in a variety of situations and scenarios, the NFPA has revealed that the theme for 2023’s Safety Stand Down campaign, which will take place across 18-24 June, is “Lithium-Ion Batteries: Are You Ready?”

The awareness drive will cover topics relating to lithium-ion battery response and safety, which will be broken down into five daily focus areas: recognition of hazards, firefighting operations, firefighter safety, post-incident considerations, and public education.

Safety Stand Down is a joint initiative of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) Safety, Health and Survival Section, the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA).

Held each year during the third week of June, the campaign works to reduce the number of preventable injuries and deaths in the fire and emergency services.

Responder agencies are encouraged to suspend all non-emergency activities during the campaign week to focus on training and education related to lithium-ion battery safety awareness and education.

Resources and training videos will be made available at www.safetystanddown.org in advance to help departments plan for and implement Safety Stand Down strategies.

In addition, NFPA will host the Fire Service Safety Stand Down Quiz to raise awareness and foster a greater understanding of this year’s theme – everyone who completes the online quiz will be automatically entered into a sweepstakes; 200 randomly selected participants will win a commemorative Safety Stand Down challenge coin.