Why lithium-ion batteries catch fire, what thermal runaway means and which risks matter most for e-bikes, EVs and other battery-powered devices
New Class L created specifically for lithium-ion battery fires
Why lithium-ion batteries now sit in a new fire class
BS ISO 3941:2026 has been published with a revision that adds a new fire classification for lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery fires.
BSI confirmed the update reflects the growing use of Li-ion batteries across the built environment, from large energy storage systems to electric vehicles and personal mobility devices.
The standard classifies fires according to the nature of the material undergoing combustion.
The latest revision introduces Class L as a dedicated category for Li-ion cells and batteries where no metallic lithium is present.
Specific behaviours recognised in the revision
The revised standard identifies a set of behaviours associated with Li-ion battery fires that differ from existing Class A, B and electrical fire categories.
These include higher energy density, leading to faster heat release and rapid fire growth.
It also highlights thermal runaway, where failure can propagate from cell to cell.
The document notes the release of toxic and flammable gases during venting.
It refers to a potential explosion risk from constrained build-up of vented gases.
The revision points to limited access caused by battery construction.
It lists projectile risk from expelled cells and burning electrolyte.
It also identifies stranded electrical energy that can create a risk of delayed re-ignition.
The standard states: “such a classification is particularly useful in the context of equipment for fire protection and firefighting”.
Implications for risk assessment and fire protection planning
The new Class L category is intended to support those responsible for assessing, insuring and controlling fire risk in settings such as battery energy storage systems (BESSs) and EV charging stations.
The revision sets out that detection and suppression strategies will need to take account of the specific hazards associated with Li-ion batteries.
It also flags the need to manage re-ignition risk and review emergency response plans accordingly.
Fire risk assessments are expected to identify whether Li-ion batteries are present, their type and quantity, and how they are stored and charged.
The standard notes that Class L risks will be relevant across a wide range of premises, including residential buildings, offices, commercial warehouses, industrial sites and transport facilities.
BS ISO 3941:2026 is the UK implementation of ISO 3941:2026, prepared with input from Technical Committee FSH/2, Fire extinguishers.
It replaces the 2007 edition, with the main changes being the addition of the lithium-ion classification and a new Clause 4 setting out hazard information for the fire classes.
These changes formalise how lithium-ion battery fires are categorised and described within the fire classification framework.
The not-so-hidden fire risk: CheckFire calls for clearer guidance on rising lithium-ion incidents
Bruce Robins, Director of CheckFire, discusses the need for education and collaboration if the industry is to raise greater awareness of fire safety risks associated with lithium-ion batteries
The use of lithium-ion battery-powered devices is widespread, from smartwatches and phones, to laptops, tablets, vapes and e-bikes and is now embedded in every aspect of modern life.
However, many remain unaware of the risks associated with improper handling, storage and charging of lithium-ion batteries.
It is rare for these batteries to pose a risk if manufactured and used safely and correctly.
However, if damaged (by overcharging, malfunction or overheating for example), lithium-ion batteries pose a serious fire risk and can ignite without warning.
As these devices become essential in every sector (from education and hospitality to logistics, construction and healthcare), the fire safety industry must raise awareness, promote regular fire risk assessments and facilitate effective prevention strategies.
Widespread use and the ensuing risk
Lithium-ion batteries are valued for their lightweight design, high-energy density and rechargeability.
Schools, college and universities depend heavily on this portable technology for daily use, while the hospitality sector relies on the batteries for catering equipment, rechargeable cleaning appliances and emergency back-up power supplies.
The healthcare sector is also reliant, given the batteries’ necessary (and sometimes lifesaving) application across equipment including portable diagnostic devices, precision instruments and emergency power in the case of grid instability.
Meanwhile, retail spaces, warehouses and office blocks increasingly rely on lithium-ion battery-operated tools and apparatus – and many on a much larger scale, with e-bikes, e-scooters and electric vehicles (EVs) on site.
The integration of rechargeable devices, tools and systems into our everyday work means there is not one sector exempt from this unique fire risk.
According to insurance company QBE and figures released earlier this year, UK fire and rescue services now attend at least three lithium-ion battery fires every day, highlighting an urgent need for greater awareness and proactive risk management.
Those responsible for fire safety must be understanding of the risks associated with lithium-ion battery-powered devices.
But, more crucially, they must be equipped with the right knowledge and specialised tools to mitigate these risks.
How fire takes hold: understanding thermal runaway
Lithium-ion battery fires are unlike other more commonly experienced fires typical of most settings (that may involve wood, paper or textiles).
Instead, they are chemically driven.
While this type of battery is generally safe when correctly manufactured, used and charged in normal conditions, the primary hazard lies in a phenomenon known as thermal runaway.
It occurs when a battery cell enters an uncontrollable and self-heating state caused by manufacturing defects, overcharging, overheating or improper storage.
This dangerous condition takes place when a battery temperature reaches 60°C and above and a chain reaction of events leads to an explosive fire that’s hard to extinguish, coupled with the release of toxic gas and smoke.
Additionally, the intense, self-perpetuating nature of this type of fire can trigger thermal runaway in nearby undamaged battery cells and increase the risk of secondary ignitions.
The explosive nature of molten metal and the likelihood of collateral fires it causes is vast, meaning it is highly likely the fire will spread to surrounding areas – making fighting lithium-ion battery fires a challenge.
It is imperative those responsible for fire safety understand that lithium-ion battery fires require a distinctly different response to that of a traditional class of fire.
While fire extinguisher installation should align with an identified fire hazard in any setting, `traditional’ fire extinguishers (plain water, foam, powder, CO2 and wet chemical) are not suitable for tackling lithium-ion battery fires.
Given the potential for rapid escalation and thermal runaway, these fires demand specialised fire extinguishers designed to not only extinguish flames, but halt thermal runaway, dissipate intense heat and mitigate the risk of reignition or peripheral fires.
A growing risk across sectors
Addressing these unique risks requires a proactive and targeted approach – one that’s reliably informed and clearly communicated to all users of a building.
This applies whatever the setting, whether office space, a warehouse, an educational setting, a residential care home or elsewhere.
Precautionary steps can be taken to ensure there is little chance as possible of thermal runaway occurring.
Firstly, businesses and authorities should only choose high-quality products from reputable manufacturers to be confident batteries meet stringent safety standards and have undergone rigorous testing.
This will reduce any chance of malfunction.
When devices are overcharged, heat builds up, which can then lead to thermal runaway.
Manufacturers’ guidance and charging recommendations must be followed.
Avoid stacking devices when charging, unplug once fully charged and do not charge overnight or for extended periods.
Additionally, devices should not be exposed to extreme hot or cold temperatures – keep them out of direct sunlight and when not in use, store in a cool, dry place.
For some settings, like warehouses and factories, it is important that designated charging areas are distanced from flammable materials.
Routine visual inspections of lithium-ion battery-powered devices will enable identification of wear and tear, swollen batteries, cracks and any other warning signs.
When the time comes to dispose of the batteries, they must not be thrown in the bin or incinerated.
Instead, designated recycling centres ensure safe disposal.
Finally, proactive preparedness is critical.
As well as raising greater awareness of this type of fire, it would be wise to install a specialised lithium-ion battery fire extinguisher, which is also equipped to tackle Class A fires to combat peripheral fires, in any setting with an FRA-recognised lithium-ion battery risk.
Adhering to regulations
Compliance with fire safety regulations is crucial for all facilities and premises across every sector.
In England and Wales, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO) covers ‘general fire precautions’ and fire safety duties required to protect ‘relevant persons’ in the event of a fire.
The RRFSO places the legal duty for overseeing fire safety on the “responsible person” – anyone with significant control over the premises, for example a business owner, employer, a landlord or a facilities manager.
In schools, the responsible person is typically the headteacher, while in healthcare and medical facilities, it is likely the Chief Executive of the healthcare organisation.
The responsible person must make sure the setting is as free from fire risks as reasonably possible, including emerging threats like those from lithium-ion batteries.
The RRFSO was recently updated to stipulate considerations for lithium-ion batteries in all fire risk assessments.
A critical requirement of this legislation, the fire risk assessment (which is overseen by the responsible person but completed by a trustworthy fire safety expert) must be subject to regular review.
This means every workplace, warehouse, healthcare setting and educational institution (to give only a few examples) must take into account any changes in activities or to the way the building is used or if usage of technology or rechargeable devices is altered and formally review and adapt the existing fire risk assessment.
Collaboration and education of vital importance
The effective management of this growing threat is not the responsibility of one group alone.
Manufacturers must be well-informed so they can prioritise safer designs, reduce the risk of malfunction and provide clearer guidance on battery usage and disposal.
Every business and workplace, whatever the sector and setting, must be equipped with the detailed knowledge and correct fire safety equipment to produce targeted fire safety plans and ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations.
Meanwhile, fire and rescue services and other fire safety experts, must continue to share insights, impart best practice precautions and prevention and develop and maintain fire safety protocols.
Preparedness, education and collaboration is key.
This proactive approach, incorporating all those with responsibility for fire safety, will ensure thorough and proper mitigation of the growing lithium-ion battery threat.
This was originally published in the December 2025 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.
Building practical protection: Firechief Global on lithium-ion battery fire risks
Laurie Pollard, Managing Director at Firechief Global, explains the unique risks of lithium-ion batteries, the company’s safety range and the role of training, testing and awareness
KiddeFenwal unveils what could shape the future of lithium-ion fire safety
KiddeFenwal has announced a programme of new developments in fire suppression following the first anniversary of its independence in July 2024.
Battery fires prompt safety focus on certified lithium-ion devices
UL Solutions warns on thermal runaway in personal electronics
UL Solutions has reported that lithium-ion batteries used in personal devices may pose a fire risk if they have not been certified for safety.
The company said lithium-ion batteries are widely used in products such as mobile phones, tablets and laptops, but some lack independent certification.
According to UL Solutions, batteries that are not properly tested may enter thermal runaway, which can result in high temperatures, smoke, fire or even explosion.
The organisation said battery fires linked to consumer devices have occurred recently on passenger flights, in homes and on vehicles.
Sherry He, vice president and general manager of Consumer, Medical and Information Technologies at UL Solutions, said: “When consumers shop for devices that use lithium-ion batteries, it is critically important that they understand the safety hazards associated with faulty, malfunctioning or uncertified products.
“Consumers should always look for the UL Mark when buying batteries or devices.
“A UL certification demonstrates that the product has met the applicable safety standards.
“Our commitment to safe, innovative battery technology is essential to our mission of working for a safer world.”
Reported fire incidents linked to battery failures
UL Solutions said several recent incidents involved lithium-ion battery fires.
On 29 May, a Southwest Airlines flight was diverted when smoke came from a passenger’s battery charger.
The day before, the airline had introduced a new policy requiring passengers to keep portable battery packs visible during flights.
The company also reported that a resident in Massachusetts suffered a minor burn when a charging phone exploded and set fire to their bed.
In another case, a portable power bank was identified as the likely cause of a fire that destroyed a South Korean airliner and injured several people.
These incidents were cited by UL Solutions as evidence of the need for proper battery evaluation and testing.
UL certification and the UL Mark
UL Solutions said third-party certification helps manufacturers confirm that battery products meet established safety and performance criteria.
The company said its services include evaluation, testing, inspection and certification of various battery types, including standby, primary and secondary models.
It added that its expertise in lithium-ion battery chemistry allows for more accurate identification of risk.
UL Solutions recommended that consumers always check for the UL Mark on devices and batteries to confirm safety compliance.
The company said its Product iQ® database is free to use and helps consumers and businesses identify certified products.
Air travel and battery fire containment
UL Solutions noted that lithium-ion batteries pose a particular concern in aviation settings.
The company said most airlines now carry battery fire containment bags on board to isolate any devices that may catch fire in flight.
To support the safe use of these containment bags, UL Solutions conducts testing against UL 5800, its Standard for Safety for Battery Fire Containment Products.
These assessments are designed to confirm that containment bags can manage the extreme conditions caused by thermal runaway events.
The company said its testing covers temperature resilience, pressure handling and fire suppression capabilities.
Policy change and battery safety in e-bikes
UL Solutions said faulty batteries in e-bikes have also caused fires in urban areas.
The company highlighted Local Law 39 in New York City, which mandates third-party certification of e-mobility devices and batteries in line with UL standards.
According to UL Solutions, early data suggests the regulation has been associated with a drop in fire-related deaths and injuries.
It added that applying similar certification rules across a wider range of products could have public safety benefits.
Consumers are advised to purchase only products that display the UL Mark.
Battery fires prompt safety focus on certified lithium-ion devices: Summary
UL Solutions has warned that uncertified lithium-ion batteries may cause fires.
The company cited recent incidents involving phones and portable chargers.
It said thermal runaway can lead to high temperatures, smoke or explosions.
UL Solutions provides testing and certification services for battery safety.
It advised consumers to look for the UL Mark when purchasing electronics.
In aviation, airlines use fire containment bags for battery-related incidents.
UL Solutions tests these bags against UL 5800 safety standards.
In New York City, Local Law 39 requires certification for e-bike batteries.
Preliminary data links the law to reduced fire-related injuries and deaths.
The company offers a public database to check product certifications.
Time to retire submersion tactics: Why water tanks fail to stop lithium-ion battery incidents
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.
Panel to examine lithium-ion battery safety at Birmingham expo
Industry panel to discuss lithium-ion battery risks
S Jones Containers has announced it will host a panel discussion on lithium-ion battery safety at the Battery Cells & Systems Expo in Birmingham on 9 July.
According to S Jones Containers, the session will examine challenges related to battery innovation, testing, and fire safety in the context of electric vehicle (EV) technology.
The discussion, titled Electric Revolution, Safety Evolution: Mastering Safety in Li-ion EV Battery Innovation, will feature contributions from Warwick Manufacturing Group and the Fire Protection Association.
The session will be held at 10am on the Gallery Floor’s Interactive Sessions stage at the NEC.
S Jones Containers stated that the event will offer guidance on battery storage design and provide insights into embedding fire safety across battery system development.
Speakers to address battery fire science and incident response
S Jones Containers confirmed that Andrew Nicholls, Head of Conversions at the company, will chair the panel.
Nicholls will be joined by Dr Simon Jones, Chief Engineer at the Energy Innovation Centre, Warwick Manufacturing Group.
Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) is an academic department within the University of Warwick and part of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult.
The organisation said WMG’s research supports advancements in battery production methods and materials in the UK.
George Edwardes, Technical Director at the Fire Protection Association (FPA), will also participate in the panel.
The FPA provides testing services, research and safety advice on lithium-ion battery hazards.
Panel aims to share lessons from real incidents
The company said the session will be informed by practical experience with real-world battery fire incidents and test conditions.
It explained that this will include discussion of destructive testing practices using modified container environments.
S Jones Containers previously supported research organisations with bespoke shipping containers for battery testing.
Andrew Nicholls said: “Having supported pioneering organisations through our supply of bespoke, high specification modified shipping containers for destructive battery testing and research purposes, it’s become clear to us that current regulations don’t reflect the risks relating to lithium-ion batteries.
“We’re looking forward to sharing knowledge and insights at the upcoming Battery Cells & Systems Expo, supported by Warwick Manufacturing Group and the Fire Protection Association – both of which are leading organisations in the EV battery revolution.
“The session is a must-attend for those aiming to innovate responsibly while protecting people, property, and progress.”
Industry collaboration at Battery Cells & Systems Expo
According to the company, the seminar reflects its continuing involvement in national discussions on battery fire safety.
S Jones Containers stated that this panel builds on its recent appearance at the Fire Safety Event in April.
That earlier session focused on hazards associated with energy storage and attracted large audience numbers, it reported.
The company added that its latest participation at the NEC reflects a growing industry focus on the integration of fire protection into EV battery design.
Safety standards and regulation to be examined
The company noted that regulation remains a recurring theme across discussions on lithium-ion battery deployment.
According to S Jones Containers, the seminar will address the gap between current legislation and known battery risks.
It said the session will highlight how existing safety guidelines may not fully account for evolving technologies in EV systems.
The Fire Protection Association’s contribution will include guidance on emerging test protocols and fire research findings.
WMG will present insights from its work on battery material behaviour, containment approaches and engineering control measures.
UK panel to examine lithium-ion battery safety at Birmingham expo: Summary
S Jones Containers will host a battery safety seminar on 9 July at the NEC in Birmingham.
The event will be held during the Battery Cells & Systems Expo.
It will focus on risks related to lithium-ion battery manufacturing, testing and storage.
Speakers include Andrew Nicholls of S Jones Containers, Dr Simon Jones of Warwick Manufacturing Group, and George Edwardes of the Fire Protection Association.
The session will be chaired by Andrew Nicholls.
S Jones Containers stated the discussion will offer practical guidance on battery storage safety.
The company confirmed it will address lessons from real-world incidents.
It said that earlier engagement at the Fire Safety Event informed this upcoming seminar.
Warwick Manufacturing Group will share research on energy innovation and battery testing.
The Fire Protection Association will provide input on fire research and risk guidance.
The session will begin at 10am on the Gallery Floor’s Interactive Sessions stage.
APSEI webinar to cover fire protection for lithium-ion batteries in indoor car parks
Fire protection risks from lithium-ion batteries to be discussed in Portugal
The Portuguese Safety Association (APSEI) will hold a public webinar on fire protection for lithium-ion batteries on 8 July 2025 at 12:00 CET.
According to Euralarm, the session will be based on its technical guidance on lithium-ion battery fire safety and electric vehicles in enclosed parking structures.
The webinar will focus on how lithium-ion battery fires can start, and how these incidents can be detected, controlled and extinguished.
Euralarm reported that the session will also examine data comparing fire risk in electric vehicles with internal combustion engine vehicles in covered car parks.
The presentation will be led by Euralarm Technical Manager Carlos Perez and delivered in English.
Technical session based on Euralarm guidance documents
Euralarm stated that the session will use two guidance documents as its foundation.
One is focused on fire protection solutions for lithium-ion batteries.
The other explores safety practices for electric vehicles parked in enclosed areas.
Euralarm said both documents aim to support fire safety engineers, facility operators and regulators in understanding how lithium-ion battery systems pose risk in confined environments.
The organisation noted that the content will include reference to known failure modes of lithium-ion cells, and how best practice in detection and suppression has developed in response.
It added that attendees will be walked through existing solutions already in use across different EU member states.
EV fire risks in covered car parks
Euralarm explained that the webinar will include an overview of comparative fire risks between electric and conventional vehicles in indoor parking.
It stated that the focus will be on real-world data and applied analysis.
The organisation said the aim is to dispel misconceptions about EV fires, while also reinforcing the need for appropriate detection and suppression strategies tailored to battery-specific hazards.
It added that the session will identify scenarios where passive fire protection alone is not sufficient, and discuss the added value of integrated fire protection systems.
According to Euralarm, this will include ventilation considerations, fire resistance of surrounding materials, and access for emergency responders.
Presentation to be led by Carlos Perez
Euralarm confirmed that the speaker will be Carlos Perez, its Technical Manager since May 2024.
Perez is based in Barcelona and holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Catalonia.
He began his career in the design, certification and testing of gaseous extinguishing systems, later expanding into systems for kitchen fire protection.
According to Euralarm, Perez has taught courses internationally and chairs standardisation committees in Spain linked to both ISO and CEN.
It added that Perez contributes to working groups within ISO/TC 21 and CEN/TC 191, helping to shape European standards on fire protection systems.
The organisation confirmed that Perez will deliver the 8 July session in English.
Event registration and language details
The webinar is scheduled for 8 July 2025, starting at 12:00 CET.
It will be held online and is open to the public, according to Euralarm.
Registration information is available through the APSEI website.
Euralarm stated that the session will be delivered in English to accommodate an international audience.
It added that there will be opportunities for attendees to ask questions at the end of the presentation.
The association said this format is designed to promote technical dialogue and practical understanding of the issues covered.
APSEI webinar to cover fire protection for lithium-ion batteries in indoor car parks: Summary
The Portuguese Safety Association (APSEI) will hold a webinar on fire protection for lithium-ion batteries on 8 July 2025 at 12:00 CET.
The content will be based on Euralarm guidance for lithium-ion battery safety and electric vehicle fire risk in parking structures.
Euralarm reported that the presentation will be led by Technical Manager Carlos Perez.
The session will explain how lithium-ion battery fires can be detected, controlled and extinguished.
It will also compare fire risks between electric vehicles and petrol or diesel vehicles in enclosed car parks.
The session will identify solutions currently used across Europe.
It will explore how battery hazards affect building safety strategy.
The presentation will be delivered in English.
Carlos Perez has a PhD in Chemical Engineering and experience in system certification and fire protection engineering.
He participates in ISO and CEN fire standardisation work.
The webinar will be accessible via registration through APSEI’s official site.
UK e-bike legislation: Industry urges action to halt unsafe imports
Bicycle Association publishes UK Government action plan on e-bike fire safety
The Bicycle Association has released a formal action plan calling on the UK Government to intervene in response to the rise in fires linked to unsafe e-bike batteries.
According to the Bicycle Association, which represents the majority of the UK’s legitimate e-bike suppliers, its “Stop e-bike fires” plan was submitted to the Department for Transport, the Department for Business and Trade, and the Home Office.
The Association confirmed that the plan has also been shared with the All-Party Parliamentary Cycling & Walking Group Enquiry into e-bike safety.
Proposed measures to target unsafe e-bike products and practices
The action plan sets out three specific requests for the Government.
The Bicycle Association urged authorities to block unsafe imports, particularly those sold directly to consumers through online marketplaces.
It also called for regulatory reform in the food delivery gig economy, which the group said has created demand for illegal conversion kits and unsafe battery products.
Finally, the Association asked for legal changes to stop the sale of high-speed throttle-based vehicles and kits that fall outside the legal definition of an Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle.
Fire risk and reputational harm from non-compliant e-bikes
Peter Eland, Technical and Policy Director at the Bicycle Association, said: “These tragic incidents must be stopped, and that requires decisive action which goes well beyond technical regulations.
“We need Ministers and Government departments, especially DfT, DBT and the Home Office, to work together to properly regulate both online marketplaces and gig economy food delivery operators, so that those sectors take real responsibility for the unsafe products supplied through their platforms or used to deliver their services.”
Eland added: “We also need Government action to take non-legal e-bikes off sale, and off the road.
“Legitimate, road legal e-bikes are known formally as EAPCs – Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles – and these are rigorously defined in law to be similar in performance to normal cycles.
“EAPCs from reputable suppliers are enjoyed safely by hundreds of thousands of people in the UK, and millions worldwide, for transport and leisure.
“In contrast, the throttle-controlled, high-speed vehicles which are often reported as “e-bikes” in connection with unsafe riding, or even use in crimes such as phone-snatching, are not legitimate e-bikes at all – they are illegal e-motorcycles.
“Government must close the legal loophole which allows such vehicles – and the conversion kits often used to create them – to be sold legally.
“Taking these products off the market would contribute to fire safety, road safety and help tackle the criminal use of high-speed unregistered e-motorbikes.”
Industry initiatives and need for cross-Government regulation
The Bicycle Association stated that the 20-page document highlights its support for the Office for Product Safety and Standards and outlines why action must extend beyond that agency.
The Association added that new measures such as the E-bike Safety Register and the E-bike Positive Retailer Pledge are in place to help identify safe products and suppliers.
These initiatives are supported by a wider public awareness campaign called “E-bike Positive”, which aims to direct consumers toward compliant and legally defined e-bikes.
The Association also noted its ongoing engagement with regulatory bodies and international standards organisations to raise technical benchmarks for battery and product safety.
Industry voices warn of long-term damage to legal e-bike sector
Steve Garidis, Executive Director of the Bicycle Association, said: “Even the safest, fully legal e-bikes are being seriously reputationally damaged by association with fires in unsafe products completely beyond the UK industry’s control.
“The legitimate e-bike category in the UK is at serious risk as a result.
“E-bike sales have fallen significantly in recent years, in stark contrast to the worldwide trend, as users face repeated headlines about e-bike dangers, and consequent blanket restrictions on access and insurance.”
Garidis added: “Our experts have been working on this issue intensively for years, working mostly behind the scenes with Government, regulators, fire and rescue services, the insurance sector, transport operators and many other stakeholders to explore possible solutions and to limit the damage to the reputable e-bike sector.
“We’ve summed up our understanding from years of work in this action plan.
“Now, on the three main points above we urge Government to act urgently – to prevent more tragic incidents and to safeguard tens of thousands of green jobs in the UK e-bike industry which otherwise has so much potential to grow, and to secure the future of this healthy, enjoyable and low-impact form of transport.
“Companies in the legitimate UK cycle industry take full legal responsibility for the safety of the products they supply.
“We think it’s high time that the online marketplaces and gig economy delivery companies take on that same responsibility, and that sales of non-road-legal e-bikes are banned.”
UK e-bike legislation: Industry urges action to halt unsafe imports: Summary
The Bicycle Association has released a national action plan on e-bike fire safety.
The plan was submitted to the Department for Transport, the Department for Business and Trade, and the Home Office.
It was also shared with the All-Party Parliamentary Cycling & Walking Group Enquiry into e-bike safety.
The plan asks the Government to block unsafe online imports.
It also calls for changes to the gig economy and restrictions on non-road-legal e-bikes.
Peter Eland of the Bicycle Association said the issue goes beyond technical regulations.
He said Government departments must work together to address the problem.
He warned that illegal vehicles are often confused with legitimate Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles.
Steve Garidis said that unsafe imports are harming public perception of legal e-bikes.
He said the Bicycle Association has developed multiple safety initiatives.
These include the E-bike Safety Register and a consumer awareness campaign.
Garidis said e-bike sales in the UK have declined because of safety concerns.
The Association urged immediate Government intervention to prevent more fires.
It said this would also protect jobs in the UK e-bike industry.
The Association confirmed its ongoing collaboration with regulators and fire services.
It said further updates would be shared through the Parliamentary Cycling & Walking Group.