Battery Hazards: Safe Handling, Charging & Disposal Practices

Why battery safety matters on today's job sites

Lithium-ion Batteries are engineered to withstand the harsh conditions of demanding job sites. They offer long runtimes, fast charging and energy efficiency, which lead to greater productivity. However, these Batteries can be hazardous if not handled correctly.

Ensuring the safe use and handling of lithium-ion Batteries prevents accidents and ensures the longevity of tools. Proper safety measures safeguard users' health and protect the investment in both equipment and personnel.

Common lithium-ion battery hazards tradespeople should be aware of

Thermal runaway

Lithium-ion Batteries are at risk of producing a self-oxidising chain reaction that causes uncontrollable heat and gas production. This chemical process, known as thermal runaway, can lead to fires that are difficult to extinguish.

A lithium-ion battery fire can be triggered by crushing, overcharging, overheating, penetrating and short-circuiting, which is why users must avoid damaging the battery.

• Overcharging can cause the formation of dendrites, tree-like structures made from lithium metal, which can pierce the separator inside the battery cell. This can cause fire or explosion. Therefore, to avoid overcharging, users should never leave unattended batteries charging.

• Short circuits can occur when the battery’s terminals encounter conductive materials, either through damage or poor storage practices. This can lead to overheating, fire, or even explosions.

• Toxic gases are released when thermal runaway happens, which can pose a significant threat to anyone in the vicinity. These gases may cause chemical burns, respiratory distress, neurological effects and death.

Safe battery handling processes

Storing

• Store lithium-ion Batteries in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas, between 5°C and 20°C.

• To prevent straining cells, store them when they're 40-60% charged.

• Make sure to keep battery terminals clean and free of debris and inspect the Batteries for signs of wear and damage before use.

• Avoid placing Batteries in places that are prone to rapid temperature fluctuations, such as near heating appliances or outside in extreme weather.

• Keep Batteries away from flammable or combustible materials, in case of explosions, to mitigate the impact.

• Don't store loose Batteries together. If the terminals come into contact, they could short-circuit.

Disposal of batteries

How to dispose of Batteries safely

• Never throw lithium-ion Batteries in general waste

It's generally illegal and always dangerous, as they're classified as hazardous waste.

• Take Batteries to certified recycling centres or collection points.

Tradespeople should dispose of dead Batteries from their Power Tools via approved routes. Many tool suppliers and recycling centres offer free battery take-back schemes.

• Use fire-resistant containers for storing damaged Batteries before disposal

Use non-conductive electrical tape to isolate the circuit and store Batteries in a cool, dry area, away from combustible materials.

Signs of a damaged battery

• Reduced performance or inability to charge

If the battery is connected to its charger and doesn't turn on, or the charge runs out too quickly, the battery may be nearing the end of its life or be dead.

• Excessive heat during normal use

If there is smoke coming out of the battery or it's very hot, stop using it immediately.

Keeping batteries protected

Tradespeople should integrate battery safety into their daily routine to ensure a safer, more efficient job site. Making battery care a priority keeps tools running smoothly and the job site accident-free. Proper handling of Batteries will go a long way to preventing hazardous situations and ensuring equipment performs at its best.