b'Summer 2024 ASSOCIATE MEMBER 2025 WPMAEXPO Presidential Sponsor News & Educational Session Presenter Is a Fire Hazard Lurking within Your Lithium-Ion Batteries?Lithium-ion batteries power everything from laptops and smartphones to power tools andvehicles with efficiency and portability. However, their widespread use comes with signifi-cant risks, as these batteries are causing a growing number ofworkplace fires.Thermal Runaway DangersThe convenience of lithium-ion batteries masks a potentially dangerous downside. A phe-nomenon known as thermal runaway can occur when improper use, storage, or charging leads to a cell failure within the battery. Once initiated, thermal runaway produces heat faster than it can be dissipated, potentially leading to explosions, smoke, and fire. The fires caused by these batteries can be challenging to extinguish, sometimes requiring thousands of gallons of water and posing the risk of reignition over subsequent hours or days.Fire Prevention StrategiesTo helpmitigate risks, consider the following guidelines: Using Certified Equipment: Ensure that batteries, chargers, and devices are listed by a qualified testing laboratory, such as UL, and avoid low-quality aftermarket replace-ments. Adhering to Manufacturer Guidelines: For storage, use, and charging, following the manufacturers instructions can significantly reduce the likelihood of battery failure.nspecting Equipment Regularly: Check batteries and devices for damage beforeIuse. Cracks, bulging, leaks, elevated temperatures, or any indication of distress war-rant immediate removal from service. Maintaining Proper Storage: Conduct all battery charging away from combustible materials, and keep batteries and devices in cool, dry places. Ensure charged devicesare removed from chargers once full to prevent overcharging. Ensuring Safe Disposal: Damaged batteries should be placed in a fire-resistant con- tainer away from combustibles and disposed of in accordance with instructions froma battery recycling center.By fostering aculture of safety and awarenessaround the potential hazards of these batteries, you can play an important role inminimizing risksand ensuring a safer work environment for everyone.52 www.wpma.com / Summer 2024'