Lithium-ion risk management guidance

Lithium-ion battery use and storage are widespread. They're used in a number of different items from small to large such as electronic cigarettes and electric vehicles. Whilst there are many reasons why a battery may develop a fault, go into thermal runaway and catch fire, charging can be a hazardous activity that requires careful management for a Lithium-ion battery. There are a number of precautions to reduce the risk of damage to a battery and / or faults developing.

As detailed on this page, Aviva’s proactive approach to risk management supports you in mitigating your risks by using Lithium-ion batteries more effectively.

Chris Andrews, Director of Risk Management Solutions

“With the widespread use of Lithium-ion batteries and other battery technologies, it's important to stay informed about the possible risks associated with using these batteries. At Aviva, we aim to proactively share information and advice on how to reduce risks and we hope that this guidance can help to protect your business."

Property risk management

12 top tips for electric vehicle chargers

Whilst generally considered safe, the risk of fire in connection with electric vehicle charging can increase when systems are poorly installed, maintained and managed. Our guidance provides 12 tips for external charging stations and the associated infrastructure.

Construction All Risks (CAR)

Lithium-ion batteries are being increasingly used on construction sites to power tools, plant and other devices. The following guidance can help reduce the risks of lithium-ion battery fires on construction sites.

Damaged, returned or recycled rechargeable batteries

Damaged, returned or recycled rechargeable batteries can present an increased risk of fire and require careful management to reduce the potential for property damage and the associated trade impacts. 

Electric and hybrid vehicle charging

Driven by the need for lower emissions, better fuel economy and higher efficiency, electric and hybrid vehicles are growing in popularity and are a common sight on the road network. There are a number of important considerations when it comes to arrangements for the siting of chargers and the charging activity itself.

Electric bicycles

Fires involving electric bicycles and e-bikes have been reported in the news and our Loss Prevention Standard can help to provide guidance to help reduce the potential for fire incidents.   

Electric scooters

The increased popularity of electric scooters, along with imports of poor-quality devices, modifications and use of aftermarket accessories can increase the risk of fire. How can you manage this risk?     

High voltage batteries

This guidance focusses on the use, storage and handling of smaller battery systems in the commercial environment, such as motor trader servicing vehicles, small warehouse storage units and emergency lighting systems and battery powered vehicles such as golf carts or forklift trucks.

Portable tools

Lithium-ion battery-powered tools are common in the workplace and whilst they're generally safe and reliable, they do introduce a fire hazard if not carefully managed. This guidance discusses some of the main concerns and what you can do to help reduce this risk potential for significant loss and consequences to business trading. 

Storage and transit

The transit and storage of lithium-ion batteries, goods containing such batteries, and the use of lithium-ion battery powered equipment (such as forklift trucks) in storage environments requires careful management to help reduce the potential for fire events. This guidance outlines the main risk exposures and recommended risk controls in respect of the storage and transit of lithium-ion batteries.

Motor risk management

Awareness when working with electric and hybrid vehicles

There are many additional workplace hazards imposed on the motor trade when dealing with electric and hybrid vehicles. This guidance will help you understand these hazards for example manual handling risks, high voltage components and cabling capable of delivering fatal electric shock and the potential for increased battery temperature, thermal runaway and fire.

Implementing electric vehicles

Businesses are at different stages of transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs), along with other alternative fuel vehicles. There are a number of areas requiring assessment to enable a safe and successful implementation.

Our Specialist Partner to help manage your Lithium-ion risks

To access this solution at preferential rates and terms, contact our Specialist Partner.

Denios

​Hazardous Materials Storage and Handling

DENIOS specialise in the design, manufacture and supply of hazardous materials storage and handling solutions. They offer standard and bespoke storage solutions and technical support.​

Need further help or assistance?

Call our Risk Help Line to speak to our Risk Management Solutions team for help and advice on

0345 366 6666

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