Educational Resources
Hazmat
Our office seeks to provide up-to-date, accurate and supportive safety education for hazardous materials
Lithium-Ion Battery Safety
Official Safety Standards & Operational Guidelines
Before You Buy & Use
- Certified Equipment: Only purchase devices and batteries listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory (NRTL) such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Look for these marks on the packaging.
- Manufacturer Guidelines: Instructions are outlined to mitigate unsafe conditions and extend battery life. Using unapproved equipment can void warranties and shift liability to the operator.
- No Alterations: Never attempt to alter batteries, chargers, or charging rates yourself. Authentic factory replacements are essential; generic modifications can interfere with the Battery Management System (BMS).
Stop Use Immediately If:
- Physical Damage: You notice signs of wetness, bulging, dents, or punctures in the battery container.
- Unusual Indicators: You detect an unusual odor, change in color, odd noises (hissing/cracking), or if the device feels excessively hot to the touch.
- Action Required: If safe to do so, move the device away from anything combustible and contact the Fire Department. Do not attempt to move a device that is already smoking or sparking.
Charging Procedures
- Direct Connection: Plug chargers directly into wall outlets. Extension cords and power strips should only be used temporarily and under strict adherence to manufacturer limits to prevent undersized wiring from overheating.
- Surface Safety: Always charge on hard, stable surfaces. Never charge on cloth-type materials like beds, couches, or pillows, which can trap heat and lead to thermal runaway.
- Supervision: Schedule charging cycles for times when you are awake and at home. Unplug chargers once the indicators show a complete charge to ensure power is not continually applied.
Storage & Climate
- Moderate Temperatures: Batteries hold a charge best and operate safest between 40°F and 104°F (4°C and 40°C). Never leave them in hot cars or in direct sunlight.
- Clear Egress: Store e-bikes and scooters away from exit doors, windows, and stairways. Keep these routes clear so you can escape and emergency personnel can enter in an emergency.
- Safe Environment: Store in orderly environments away from small children, pets, and flammable vapors.
Li-ion Batteries are Everywhere
These standards apply to all common household and industrial devices:
Cell Phones & Laptops
E-Bikes & Scooters
Vapes & E-Cigarettes
Power Tools
Drones & RC Vehicles
Smart Watches
Smoke & CO Alarms
Digital Cameras
Disposal: Do not discard these batteries in the trash.
Find a Certified Recycling Location Near YouNFPA
The NFPA provides educational media, including social media cards, videos and instructions for teaching the public about safe battery use.
Follow this link for more information:
or click below:
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