Lithium battery and charging safety Toolbox Talk
Damaged, incompatible or overheating lithium batteries can fail rapidly and produce fire, toxic smoke and re-ignition. Use approved batteries and chargers in a managed charging area.
Key points
- Use the manufacturer-approved battery, charger and settings.
- Inspect for swelling, cracks, heat, leakage, damage or unusual smell.
- Charge on a stable non-combustible surface away from escape routes and combustibles.
- Protect batteries from impact, water, short circuit and extreme temperature.
- Do not leave higher-risk charging unattended or outside the site procedure.
- Quarantine damaged batteries in the designated safe arrangement without handling a hot or smoking unit.
- Raise the alarm, evacuate and call 999 for smoke, hissing, rapid heating or fire.
Do
- Let batteries cool before charging.
- Keep terminals protected in transport and storage.
- Follow the site disposal route.
Don't
- Do not use damaged, counterfeit or incompatible chargers.
- Do not charge in bags, vehicles or escape routes.
- Do not touch or move a smoking battery.
Questions to ask the group
- Where is the approved charging area?
- What damage requires quarantine?
- What is the alarm and evacuation action?
References: Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998; Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005