Lithium batteries are in everything from smart phones to electric vehicles and are crucial for powering many of the devices and equipment you use across your business.

Despite their wide range of uses, lithium batteries also pose significant risks if they are not properly managed. For instance, they may catch fire if they overheat, if they are dropped or if they are defective. Understanding these risks and implementing the right safety measures is often vital to help protect your business and your staff.

So, here’s an overview of some best practices for handling lithium batteries.

Why are lithium batteries a risk? 

Lithium batteries can overheat and catch fire or explode if they are damaged, not properly stored or if they are overcharged. To minimise these risks, it’s essential to handle them with care, store them properly and charge them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

How to safely store lithium batteries 

Proper storage of lithium batteries is crucial to help prevent accidents. Store them in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials and ensure they are not exposed to direct sunlight.

An option is to keep them in fire-resistant storage cabinets that are purpose-built for lithium batteries.

Reducing the risk of damage to lithium batteries 

Follow the battery’s or your device’s handling guidelines to help prevent damage. Use protective packaging and avoid crushing or puncturing the batteries. Ensure employees are trained in proper handling techniques.

Safe disposal of lithium batteries 

Not properly disposing of lithium batteries can lead to environmental contamination, safety hazards and even fires in waste disposal facilities. Follow your council’s regulations for disposing of and recycling lithium batteries, using designated recycling programs or facilities that specialise in handling hazardous materials.

Take the opportunity to review your emergency response plan

Having an emergency response plan in place is often vital in case your business has an incident involving lithium batteries.

It’s important to train employees on how to respond to battery fires or leaks, including evacuation procedures and how to use fire extinguishers for lithium battery fires. It may help to document these procedures in your employee manual so you and your staff can refer to them and update them as needed.

Follow the right workplace health and safety protocols 

Teaching your staff about the risks associated with lithium batteries and the best practices for handling them may help with duty of care obligations you may have to them.

Regular training sessions can help reinforce safety protocols and ensure everyone is aware of the potential hazards associated with lithium batteries and how to mitigate them.

It’s essential to have the right insurance cover in place so that if there is a fire at your business premises, you’re confident you’re covered. Talk to your broker or adviser today to help ensure your business is well protected.

Important notice – Steadfast Group Limited ABN 98 073 659 677

This general information does not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation or needs. It is also not financial advice, nor complete, so please discuss the full details with your insurance broker or adviser as to whether these types of insurance are appropriate for you. Deductibles, exclusions and limits apply. These insurances are issued by various insurers and can differ.