Lithium Battery Fire Risks: How to Store and Charge Tool Batteries Safely

Best practices for lithium battery charging

Always use manufacturer-approved chargers

Using the correct charger ensures the battery is charged with the proper voltage and current, which helps prevent overcharging and malfunction. For users with MILWAUKEE® Power Tools, we recommend using only the MILWAUKEE® Chargers designed for those tools.

Charge in a safe, designated area

Charging should always take place on a well-ventilated, non-combustible surface. Avoid charging on benches cluttered with materials like wood dust or solvents that can easily catch fire. A designated charging station helps keep potential hazards contained and under control.

Never charge damaged batteries

If a lithium battery shows signs of damage – swelling, cracks, leaks or overheating – don't risk it. Users should immediately isolate the battery and follow the correct procedure to remove it from service. Using damaged Batteries can lead to fires, injuries and tool failure.

Avoid unattended or overnight charging

Charging Batteries overnight or while away from the job site increases the risk of unnoticed faults. Instead, users should establish a charging schedule where batteries are monitored when charging. This reduces the chance of problems going unseen and causing damage or danger.

Allow batteries to cool before charging

After a battery-intensive task, allow the battery to cool before charging. Charging a battery while it's still hot can cause it internal stress, increasing the risk of overheating and thermal runaway.

Best practices for safe battery storage

Store batteries in cool, dry conditions

Extremes of heat or cold can degrade lithium-ion Batteries over time. Tradespeople should store Batteries in a cool, dry environment to maintain their longevity and performance. It's also a good idea to avoid leaving them in vehicles or vans that can heat up quickly in direct sunlight.

Use purpose-built storage solutions

Users storing batteries for long periods should use fire-resistant cabinets or containers and separate them from flammable materials.

Avoid loose storage in vans or tool bags

Storing Batteries loosely in a van or tool bag can lead to short-circuiting if the batteries come into contact with metal objects. Always use protective cases or covers to keep batteries secure and insulated from external elements. MILWAUKEE® Storage Solutions are designed to keep tools and batteries safe and organised on and off the job site.

Store batteries partially charged for long periods

Any tradespeople needing to store lithium-ion Batteries for extended periods without use should keep them partially charged – ideally around 40-60%. This helps maintain their health and reduces the risk of overcharging or deep discharge.

Reduce the lithium battery fire risk with safe charging and storage

Lithium battery fires on job sites and in storage are largely preventable. By sticking to the best charging and storage practices, tradespeople can protect their tools, job sites, and most importantly, their health.

Start by implementing these lithium-ion battery safety practices and promoting safety across the job site. A safer work area means a more productive, risk-free environment for everyone.