CEO, Firewize
21 Jun, 2023
Lithium-ion battery fires have become a significant concern in various settings, and it is essential to understand the industry standards and regulations related to portable fire extinguishers.
Lithium-ion batteries are popular for portable devices such as computer laptops, mobile phones, toys, electric scooters, electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, e-cigarettes, battery operated power tools, and now motor vehicles.
As at June 2023 in Australia, there is no system for approval for the selection and application of portable fire extinguishers for fires involving Lithium-ion batteries.
To provide clarity on the topic, the Fire Protection Association Australia (FPA Australia) issued a Technical Advisory Note (TAN 09, Second Edition in February 2023) addressing the challenges posed by Lithium-ion batteries and the availability of suitable fire extinguishers.
According to the Technical Advisory Note, at the time of publication there are no specific Australian Standards dedicated to fire extinguishers designed specifically for mitigating risks associated with Lithium-ion batteries. According to FPA Australia "portable fire extinguishers available in Australia cannot claim compliance with the Australian Fire Extinguisher Standards for extinguishing Lithium-ion battery fires".
Both FPA Australia and the CSIRO (one of the agensies responsible for certifying the performance of portable fire extinguishers) both acknowledge the need for standards applicable to this type of fire extinguisher and is actively working towards developing guidelines in collaboration with industry stakeholders.
Compliance with the ACCC Mandatory Standards for portable fire extinguishers, such as AS/NZS 1841-2007 and AS/NZS 1850-2009, remains essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of fire extinguishers in general use.
It is worth emphasising that standard fire extinguishers commonly used for Class A, B, or C fires may not be suitable for tackling Lithium-Ion fires. Due to the unique nature of these fires, utilising the wrong type of fire extinguisher can potentially exacerbate the situation and lead to a risk to first responders and the ineffective control or suppression of a fire.
Furthermore, it is essential to understand the reaction of Lithium with water. When Lithium comes into contact with water, it reacts intensely, producing lithium hydroxide and highly flammable hydrogen gas. This reaction underscores the need for caution and proper handling when dealing with Lithium and water, as it can further fuel the fire and increase the potential risk.
The CSIRO, Australia's leading scientific research organization, issued an Advisory Note (AN-004) highlighting the challenges surrounding the extinguishment of Li-Ion battery fires.
The Advisory Note emphasizes that no Australian or internationally-recognized standard currently exists to provide performance requirements for extinguishing Li-Ion battery fires. This lack of standardized guidelines presents a significant hurdle in certifying fire protection products specifically designed for combating these fires.
According to the CSIRO, the organisation has taken a proactive stance by informing stakeholders that it cannot certify any fire protection product's ability to extinguish Li-Ion battery fires.
It is important to note that in the event of a Li-Ion battery fire, immediate action should be taken by contacting your local fire brigade. They possess the necessary expertise and equipment to handle these unique fire hazards safely.
While the prevalence of Li-Ion battery fires has raised concerns, it is crucial to rely on accurate information and professional guidance. As of the date of publication of this article (June 2023), there is no standardised certification for fire protection products specifically tailored to extinguishing Li-Ion battery fires.
The CSIRO have stated however that they actively support the development of safety standards in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
Remember, safety and accurate information are key when dealing with Lithium-Ion fires and understanding the behavior of Lithium in water. Professional assistance and adherence to recommended safety protocols are crucial for managing such incidents effectively.
