The Australian insurer IAG has released a lithium-ion battery safety factsheet as forecasts show the average household in the country will have 33 lithium-ion powered devices this year.
According to IAG, which is Australia’s largest insurer, with e-bikes and e-scooters surging in popularity across the country, the insurer has urged consumers to only buy from trusted suppliers and follow safe usage guidelines.
While small battery-powered devices are sparking concern, batteries in electric vehicles (EVs) are proving to be much safer. There's virtually zero fire risk if an undamaged EV is charged correctly.
IAG's factsheet brings together key information on lithium-ion batteries, including practical guidance on how to safely use, charge, purchase and dispose of these devices.
The factsheet aims to close knowledge gaps around lithium-ion battery safety and provide clear, practical guidance to help households use and manage these devices safely.
Initial findings from an IAG's research project revealed that the risk of fire increases significantly when batteries are damaged, exposed to saltwater flooding, charged incorrectly or subjected to repeated impacts. The project was conducted in collaboration with QUT, EV FireSafe, Standards Australia and iMOVE.
IAG research centre head Shawn Ticehurst said consumers are often unknowingly increasing fire risk through everyday charging habits.
"EV battery fires are extremely rare - they have advanced Battery Management Systems that prevent overheating and overcharging, and the packs are built with strong, fire-resistant casings that stop heat from spreading."
He said, "Consumers can easily purchase low-quality, often untested products online, and many aren't getting the information they need about safe charging practices. By better understanding how battery condition and charging habits contribute to fire risk, we can help establish the guidelines needed to keep people safe."