Lithium-ion batteries power everything from forklifts to handheld tools in manufacturing and distribution facilities. While they offer efficiency and convenience, they also pose serious fire hazards if not handled, stored, and protected properly. A lithium-ion battery fire can escalate quickly, releasing toxic gases and creating an extremely high-temperature blaze that is difficult to extinguish.
As a property manager, understanding the risks and implementing fire prevention measures is critical to protecting your facility and workforce.
How Do Lithium-Ion Battery Fires Start?
Lithium-ion battery fires typically begin with thermal runaway, a dangerous chain reaction where a battery cell overheats uncontrollably, leading to combustion. This can occur due to:
- Overcharging or Overheating – Charging a battery beyond its capacity or exposing it to high temperatures can damage internal components, causing them to short-circuit and ignite.
- Physical Damage – Dropping, puncturing, or crushing a battery can rupture the internal separator, leading to a short circuit and heat buildup that may result in a fire.
- Manufacturing Defects – Poor-quality or counterfeit lithium-ion batteries may contain flaws that increase the likelihood of overheating and failure.
- Improper Storage – Stacking batteries too closely, exposing them to moisture, or storing them in hot environments can increase fire risk.
- Using Incorrect Chargers – Mismatched or non-approved chargers can lead to excessive heat generation, stressing the battery cells and triggering thermal runaway.
Once a lithium-ion battery fire starts, it can spread rapidly and re-ignite even after being extinguished, making proper fire prevention and suppression critical.
1. Preventing Lithium-Ion Battery Fires in Your Facility
While having the right firefighting equipment is critical, prevention is the best strategy. Here’s how property managers can reduce fire risks:
Implement Safe Charging Practices
- Use manufacturer-approved chargers and avoid overcharging.
- Ensure battery chargers are in well-ventilated, monitored areas.
Store Batteries Properly
- Keep lithium-ion batteries in climate-controlled, fire-resistant cabinets.
- Never store damaged or swollen batteries with undamaged ones.
Train Employees on Safe Handling
- Require employees to inspect batteries before use.
- Educate teams on fire risks, early warning signs (swelling, excessive heat, or strange odors), and emergency response protocols.
Conduct Regular Risk Assessments
- Evaluate fire suppression readiness.
- Identify high-risk areas where batteries are stored, used, or charged.
2. Choosing the Right Fire Extinguishers & Fire Suppression Systems for Lithium-Ion Battery Fires
Since lithium-ion batteries contain their own oxidizer, standard fire extinguishers (such as ABC dry chemical) are not effective in putting them out. Property managers must ensure the proper fire suppression equipment is readily available, including:
- Class D fire extinguishers – Designed for metal fires, these can be used for lithium-metal batteries but are not effective for lithium-ion batteries.
- Lith-X or FireBlanket suppression kits – These smother burning battery packs, limiting oxygen and heat spread.
- Water-based extinguishers with cooling agents – These are often the most effective because they cool the battery and prevent thermal runaway from spreading.
Fire Sprinkler & Suppression Needs for Lithium-Ion Battery Fires
Because lithium-ion battery fires burn at extreme temperatures and can re-ignite, traditional sprinkler systems may not be sufficient to suppress them. Property managers should evaluate specialized fire suppression options, such as:
- Water-Based Sprinkler Systems – High-volume water deluge or misting systems can help cool the burning batteries and prevent fire spread. However, they must be designed to provide continuous cooling, as lithium-ion fires can re-ignite.
- Clean Agent Suppression Systems – Gas-based fire suppression systems, such as FM-200 or NOVEC 1230, can help control fires in battery storage areas without damaging equipment, but they do not effectively cool overheating cells.
- Aerosol Suppression Systems – Some facilities use condensed aerosol systems that disperse fire-suppressing chemicals to reduce heat and oxygen levels in the affected area.
- Specialized Battery Fire Protection Solutions – New technologies, such as fire-resistant battery storage cabinets with built-in suppression, can provide added protection in high-risk areas.
For facilities storing or using large quantities of lithium-ion batteries, a risk assessment should determine whether existing fire suppression systems need upgrades or modifications to handle these unique fire hazards. We also recommend referencing this NFPA resource for more lithium-ion battery safety information.
3. Are You Prepared? Schedule a Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Risk Assessment
Don’t wait until an emergency happens—be proactive about lithium-ion battery fire safety. A professional risk assessment can help identify potential hazards, ensure you have the correct fire suppression equipment, and provide training for your team.
Contact us today to schedule a lithium-ion battery fire risk assessment and ensure your facility is properly protected!