Lithium-ion Battery Fires
Are you Prepared to Protect Your Workplace?
A report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2018 revealed that over five years, 25,000 fires were linked to failing lithium-ion batteries. This equates to about 5,000 battery-related fires annually. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that these incidents lead to a staggering $15.9 billion in direct and indirect costs for businesses across the U.S. each year. Is your workplace vulnerable to the potentially devastating impact of lithium-ion battery fires?
Lithium-ion batteries have revolutionized the way we use portable electronics like smartphones and laptops, offering convenience and efficiency. However, as their use grows, so do the risks. Despite being a relatively modern technology, these batteries can pose significant hazards if damaged or mishandled. As demand continues to rise, global lithium-ion battery use is projected to grow nearly seven-fold by 2030. This surge underscores the urgency of ensuring safety measures are in place at your business.
Hidden Hazards of Charging Lithium-Ion Batteries
One of the most important considerations when using flammable safety cabinets is their location. These cabinets should always be located away from exit paths and from sources of heat and ignition, such as open flames, sparks, and electrical equipment. They should also be kept in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat.
The Impact of Lithium-Ion Battery Fires
The consequences of a lithium-ion battery fire can be catastrophic. Not only can such incidents cause significant damage to property, but they also pose health and environmental risks. Here are some of the potential effects:
- Rapid Fire Spread: Lithium-ion battery fires can escalate quickly, causing severe damage to your facility, equipment, and inventory.
- Toxic Emissions: These fires release dangerous gases, which can lead to respiratory issues and skin irritation among workers, as well as significant environmental harm.
- Business Disruption: The resulting downtime and operational interruptions can lead to lost productivity and revenue.
- Increased Insurance Costs: Recovering from a fire incident can be a lengthy process, with the potential for higher premiums and added financial strain.
One example from a local business shows how a thermal runaway incident—caught on security cameras—led to an overnight fire while a battery was charging, resulting in an estimated loss of $3 million.
Key Characteristics of Lithium-Ion Battery Fires
- Explosive Potential: Lithium-ion batteries contain volatile gases, which, if ignited, can result in explosive fires that spread rapidly and cause severe injuries.
- Hazardous Emissions: Burning lithium-ion batteries emit harmful gases and fumes that can affect both health and the environment.
- Difficult to Extinguish: These batteries generate heat internally, making it challenging to put out fires. They can reignite unexpectedly and even damage concrete and steel structures.
- Limited Warning: Lithium-ion batteries often fail without visible signs, and fires can spread quickly before they are contained.
Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Cabinets: The Solution
To safeguard your business against the dangers of lithium-ion battery fires, investing in a dedicated safety cabinet is essential. Justrite's Lithium-Ion Battery Charging Safety Cabinet provides comprehensive protection and peace of mind. Designed with advanced technology, the cabinet helps prevent potential fire risks while ensuring efficient charging.
Key features of the Justrite Lithium-ion Battery Charging Safety Cabinet include:
- Enhanced Safety: Made from durable 18-gauge steel with double-walled construction, the cabinet offers robust protection against fire hazards.
- Efficient Charging: Capable of charging multiple batteries up to 2kWh, it ensures fast and reliable charging while reducing downtime.
- Security and Convenience: The lightweight, benchtop design allows for easy relocation, and lockable doors prevent unauthorized access.
- Temperature Regulation: With an axial fan and sliding doors, the cabinet controls internal temperatures, automatically shutting the fan if temperatures exceed 135°F to enhance safety.
- Durability: Constructed with high-quality materials, including stainless steel latches and piano hinges, the cabinet resists heat, corrosion, and wear over time.
- Ease of Use: It features grounding attachments, leveling feet, and a fixed shelf with a load capacity of 65 lbs, along with a power strip to safely charge lithium-ion batteries. By implementing the Lithium-Ion Battery Charging Safety Cabinet, you can significantly reduce the risk of fires and create a safer working environment. Don’t wait for an incident to occur—protect your workplace today.
Click here to learn more and secure your business from the growing risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.
Discover the Full Range of Lithium Battery Cabinets
From FM to EN-compliant options, choose from a range of models offering basic to premium protection and security.
23-LC FM Lithium-ion Battery Charging Safety Cabinet
The Justrite Lithium-Ion Battery Charging Safety Cabinet offers superior protection with its unique 9-layer ChargeGuard™ technology. Made in Italy.
226 EN Lithium-ion Battery Charging Safety Cabinet
Justrite's EN Lithium Battery Cabinets are available in 4 models from basic storage to secure storage, charging, detection, and extinguishing. Made in Italy.
