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Review of Lithium Ion Battery Fires and Proposed Legislation

Writer's picture: Tim SpearsTim Spears
Jul 12, 20245 min read

In recent weeks, several alarming incidents involving lithium-ion batteries have highlighted the continued need for increased awareness and regulation to mitigate the risks these batteries pose. From electric bikes catching fire to legislative measures aimed at preventing such hazards, the implications for fire safety and community risk reduction are immense.


Summary of Recent Incidents


Several recent news stories illustrate the pervasive danger of lithium-ion batteries:


  • E-bike Catches Fire After Being Left in the Sun

    • Summary: An e-bike in West Valley, Utah, caught fire after being left in the sun. The incident was attributed to the overheating of its lithium-ion battery, leading to thermal runaway and fire. Authorities emphasized the importance of not exposing such devices to high temperatures (KSL NewsRadio, 2024).

    • Link: KSL NewsRadio


  • Three Electric Buses Catch Fire While Being Charged

    • Summary: In Ahmedabad, three electric buses caught fire while being charged at a station. The incident pointed to overheating issues with the lithium-ion batteries, causing significant damage (Times of India, 2024).

    • Link: Times of India


  • Electric Bikes Charging in Garage Spark Fire

    • Summary: A fire in a garage in Maineville, Ohio, was caused by electric bikes charging. The lithium-ion batteries overheated and caused a significant fire. Fire Chief Jason Jewett emphasized the importance of supervising charging devices to prevent such incidents (WLWT News, 2024).

    • Link: WLWT News


  • Lithium-ion Battery Possible Culprit in Joplin Housefire

    • Summary: A house fire in Joplin, Missouri, is suspected to have been caused by a lithium-ion battery. The Joplin Fire Department responded to the incident, which caused significant damage. Investigations are ongoing to confirm the battery's involvement (Four States Homepage, 2024).

    • Link: Four States Homepage


  • Fire Sparks Chaos: Lithium Battery Turns Van to Ashes in Chon Buri

    • Summary: In Chon Buri, Thailand, a van was destroyed by a fire caused by a lithium-ion battery. The incident raised concerns about the safety of such batteries in vehicles  (Thaiger, 2024).

    • Link: Thaiger


  • Crews Respond to Battery Fire at East Penn Facility

    • Summary: A fire broke out at the East Penn Manufacturing facility in Maxatawny Township, Pennsylvania, due to a lithium-ion battery. The fire was contained by the facility's suppression system, and no injuries were reported (WFMZ, 2024).

    • Link: WFMZ


  • Toms River Fire Prevention Bureau Reports e-Bike Battery Pack Fire

    • Summary: An e-bike battery pack fire in Toms River, New Jersey, required the response of both the fire department and a hazmat team. The fire caused extensive damage, and authorities urged residents to follow safety guidelines when charging such devices (MidJersey News, 2024).

    • Link: MidJersey News




  • Brooklyn Fire That Left Man Clinging to Life Started by E-Bike Battery

    • Summary: A fire in Brooklyn, New York, was caused by an e-bike battery that exploded while charging. The blaze destroyed two storefronts and two apartments, critically injuring a 30-year-old man. The FDNY emphasized not charging lithium-ion batteries unattended and following safety protocols (FirefighterNation, 2024).

    • Link: FirefighterNation




Understanding the Hazards of Lithium-Ion Batteries


Lithium-ion batteries are widespread in modern life, powering everything from smartphones to electric vehicles. However, their high energy density and chemical composition make them susceptible to overheating, catching fire, and even exploding if damaged or improperly handled.


Key Safety Concerns:


  • Overheating: Batteries can overheat during charging, especially in hot environments or when using incompatible chargers (NFPA, 2022a).

  • Thermal Runaway: A fault can cause a battery to self-heat, leading to temperatures over 1,000°F, potentially igniting fires or causing explosions (Underwriters Laboratories, 2023).

  • Toxic Gases: Fires from lithium-ion batteries release harmful gases that can pose severe health risks (NFPA, 2022b).


Safety Measures for Community Risk Reduction


Given the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, it is crucial for communities to adopt stringent safety measures. Here are some best practices, along with how they relate to recent incidents:


Purchase and Use:


  • Certified Products: Always buy products with batteries certified by recognized testing labs like UL (Underwriters Laboratories, 2023).

  • Manufacturer’s Instructions: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for use and charging (NFPA, 2022b).


Charging and Storage:


  • Proper Environment: Charge batteries in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials (NFPA, 2022a).

  • Avoid Overcharging: Do not charge devices overnight or leave them unattended while charging (NFPA, 2022b). The Brooklyn fire incident illustrates the dangers of unattended charging, which can lead to catastrophic consequences (FirefighterNation, 2024).

  • Safe Storage: Store batteries away from direct sunlight and high temperatures (NFPA, 2022a). The e-bike fire in West Valley, Utah, occurred due to the bike being left in the sun, highlighting the importance of proper storage (KSL NewsRadio, 2024).


Disposal:


  • Recycling: Never dispose of lithium-ion batteries in regular trash. Use designated recycling centers to prevent fires and environmental contamination (EPA, 2024).

  • Handling Damaged Batteries: If a battery shows signs of damage, such as swelling, leaking, or unusual heat, handle it with care and dispose of it properly (Underwriters Laboratories, 2023).


Recent Legislative Measures


  • Suffolk County, NY: Certification Requirement for Lithium-Ion Batteries

    • Summary: The Suffolk County Legislature passed a measure requiring certification of lithium-ion storage batteries for electric-assist bicycles and other powered mobility devices. The certification must come from a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) or Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

    • Details:

      • Legislative Intent: The legislation addresses the lack of government regulation on the safety of lithium-ion batteries used in electric powered mobility devices and e-bikes. The legislation aims to prevent potential fires and explosions caused by faulty batteries.

    • Key Provisions:

      • Certification Requirements: Batteries must be certified by an NRTL or UL.

      • Penalties: Fines for non-compliance range from $1,000 for the first violation to $2,000 for subsequent violations.

      • Enforcement: The law will be enforced by various local authorities, including the Suffolk County Fire Marshal and local police departments.

    • Link: RiverheadLOCAL

    • Legislation Text: Suffolk County Legislation


  • New Hampshire: Ban on Disposal of Lithium-Ion Batteries in Landfills

    • Summary: House Bill 1386 prohibits the disposal of lithium-ion batteries and electronic devices in New Hampshire landfills and incinerators. The bill requires facility owners to post informational signs and provide educational materials on recycling these items. The aim is to reduce landfill fires and environmental hazards caused by improper disposal of lithium-ion batteries.

    • Details:

      • Prohibition: Bans disposal of lithium-ion batteries and electronic devices in landfills and incinerators.

      • Educational Efforts: Requires facility owners to post signs and provide educational materials on proper disposal and recycling.

      • Environmental Impact: Aims to prevent fires, reduce air pollution, and prevent heavy metal contamination from improper disposal.

    • Link: New Hampshire Bulletin

    • Legislation Text: HB 1386-FN


Lithium-ion batteries offer tremendous benefits but come with significant risks that must be managed through proper usage, storage, and disposal. Recent incidents underscore the need for safety measures and robust community risk reduction strategies. By staying informed and adhering to best practices, we can prevent fires and ensure the safe use of these powerful energy sources.


References


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