The use of lithium batteries is becoming more common not just in research but in everyday life with the introduction of electric vehicles etc. However, if lithium batteries are not stored, used, charged, or disposed of correctly there can be serious consequences.

Fires involving lithium batteries are one of the fastest growing fire risks in general. In 2023, London Fire and Rescue Service reported a 78% rise in numbers of e-bike fires compared to 2022 (183 fires in total). Overall, statistics suggest there were 338 lithium-ion e-bike and e-scooter battery fires in the UK in 2023. Almost 40% of e-bike fires in 2023 were found to have been caused by conversion kits. In addition, lithium batteries put in household rubbish bins cause about 700 fires every year in bin lorries and waste-processing centres. From 1st June 2023, e-scooters, e-unicycles, and e-skateboards are not allowed to be taken onto UK trains.

One of the main issues with lithium battery fires is that they are very difficult to extinguish and are known to reignite even when thought to have been put out, presenting difficulties to firefighters. This document provides guidance on the safe storage, use and disposal of lithium batteries at the University of Bath. It also includes some information from external sources regarding e-bikes, e-scooters and e-cigarettes that could be applied to use outside of the University.

To download this file you must be connected to the University of Bath network or log in with your University username and password.