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Lithium-ion batteries are prevalent in electronic devices such as laptops, tablets, smartphones, cameras, interactive whiteboards, or smartboards in classrooms may have built-in lithium-ion batteries for wireless functionality due to their rechargeable capabilities. While these devices enhance the learning experience, it is crucial to be aware of safety precautions to mitigate potential risks associated with lithium-ion batteries. The average life span of a lithium-ion battery is typically limited to 2 to 3 years from manufacture. The lifetime limitation will occur whether the battery is in use or not. 

Lithium-ion batteries are small and lightweight but are capable of storing a large amount of energy. As a result of these characteristics, they are volatile under stress, therefore, if damaged or incorrectly charged they can be a fire risk. Warning signs that a lithium-ion battery pack or cell is likely to fail include the battery appearing to bulge or swell, sometimes accompanied by other signs such as discharging too fast and/or the battery is hot to the touch. Once a battery fails or ‘runs away’ the cells usually start to give off smoke. Thermal runaway is the chemical process within the lithium-ion battery, it produces heat and flammable toxic chemical gases very quickly, often before any flame appears.

Charging Stations 

• Designate specific charging stations for electronic devices within the premises. Ensure these areas are deemed suitable, e.g., these areas need to be assessed as part of the Fire Risk Assessment process.
• Ensure that these stations are well-ventilated to dissipate heat generated during charging.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions at all times.
• Ensure items are not left unattended when charging and are turned off when the battery is fully charged and arrange for one device or battery to be charged at once.
• Avoid overnight or unattended charging to prevent overcharging incidents.

• Place visible reminders near charging stations to reinforce the instructions given.

• Designate specific staff members to oversee and enforce charging safety guidelines, including routine charging station checks.

• Always use the charger that came with the device, If you need to buy a replacement battery or charger, always choose a branded, genuine product from the manufacturer. There are lots of fakes out there, and it can be difficult to spot the difference.
• If the device has not been used for quite some time, be extra careful when you charge it – lithium-ion batteries don’t like being discharged to a very low voltage.

 Training and Awareness 

• Provide training/awareness sessions on lithium-ion battery safety for staff responsible for managing devices. The session needs to include:-

• The identification of potential risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, including overheating, fire, and explosion.
• Tailored guidance for devices commonly used in your setting (e.g., laptops, tablets, smartphones). Specific precautions for each type of device.
• Avoiding overcharging and the importance of using approved chargers.
• Best practices for storing devices with lithium-ion batteries - temperatures and conditions.
• Recognition of warning signs such as unusual heat, swelling, or changes in device performance and procedures for reporting issues promptly.
• Importance of regular inspections for signs of wear, damage, or malfunction and procedures for replacing damaged batteries or devices.
• Actions to take in case of a battery-related fire, including the use of fire extinguishers.
• Proper methods for disposing of electronic devices and batteries at the end of their lifecycle.
• Access to written materials, videos, or other resources that reinforce key safety principles.
• Consider providing practical demonstrations on safe battery handling and charging.
• Simulated scenarios to test staff's knowledge and response in emergency situations.

• Recommend conducting awareness campaigns for students, emphasising the importance of responsible device usage and the prompt reporting of any issues.

  Storage Guidelines 

• Ensure electronic devices with lithium-ion batteries are stored in cool, dry places away from direct sunlight and humidity extinguishing systems.
• Ensure powering off devices when not in use to prevent unnecessary battery drain.
• Implement secure storage protocols for devices during non-operational hours to prevent unauthorised access.

  Inspection and Maintenance 

• Complete regular inspections of devices to identify any signs of wear, damage, or malfunction.
• Arrange for the prompt replacement of damaged batteries or devices and ensure that replacements meet safety standards, e.g. BS EN 62133-2:2017+A1:2021 (currently under review).

  Fire Safety Measures 

• Suggest the installation of fire extinguishers in strategic locations, especially near charging stations.
• Encourage educational sessions for staff on the proper use of fire safety equipment and emergency procedures.
• Due to the chemical nature of a cell fire in a lithium-ion battery, standard fire extinguishers, such as foam and water, will not suffice. Flooding the battery with water is the only way to extinguish a lithium battery fire. Additional fire extinguishment can be utilised through the application of various other forms of fire protection, such as Dry powder extinguishers, carbon dioxide extinguishers, Water mist and Fire blanket systems.

  Disposal Procedures 

• Lithium-ion batteries are classified as hazardous waste when they reach the end of their life. Thus, used batteries must be packed separately from other materials, especially severely damaged batteries, as these can be extremely flammable.

• Introduce procedures for the disposal of electronic devices and batteries at the end of their lifecycle, e.g., a collaboration with certified e-waste recycling facilities to ensure environmentally friendly disposal practices.

    Emergency Response Plan 

• Prepare a clear emergency response plan in case of battery-related incidents and communicate to all staff.
• Establish protocols to ensure that staff know how to respond to overheating, smoke, or other signs of battery malfunction.

By adhering to these safety guidelines, you can prevent fires and collectively contribute to creating a secure environment.

Every year there are thousands cases of fires and safety issues over Christmas. Here’s our top Christmas safety tips to help prevent your festivities being cut short:  

• Don’t leave burning candles unattended, make sure you put them out before going to bed and do not put candles on Christmas trees
• If you have old Christmas lights, seriously consider buying new ones, which will meet much higher safety standards. Keep the lights switched off until the Christmas tree is decorated, don’t let children play with lights, and remember to switch off the lights when going out of the house or going to bed
• Have scissors handy to open packaging, so you’re not tempted to use a knife, and have screwdrivers at the ready to assemble toys
• Beware of trailing cables and wires in the rush to connect new gadgets and appliances, and always read instructions
• Falls are the most common accidents so try to keep clutter to a minimum. Make sure stairs are well-lit and free from obstacles, especially if you have guests
• Plan New Year fireworks well in advance and follow the Firework Safety Code
• Test your smoke alarm(s) before putting your tree/lights up. Have you seen how quickly a dry tree can catch fire? Please make sure you are extra careful as you take off all your decorations and lights – it is scary what can happen in 60 seconds!

  Merry Christmas from all at M&J

As we get into the season of cheer and winter months M&J want to bring you some safety tips.

There are 3 basic principles: Drive safely – Look after your vehicle – Watch out in low winter sun.

Drive Safely: It is easy to forget the risks we take whilst driving, especially if you are in a rush to get to your destination. It's not worth it, especially when winter weather increases the dangers to you, your passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians. Driving safely in winter can be as simple as sticking with the basics: 

• Allow time to demist your windscreen and clear all vehicle windows to ensure you have full visibility before setting off.
• Drive and brake to suit the weather conditions.
• Allow enough distance between you and other road users.

Did you know that stopping distances increase by up to 10 times in the snow and ice?

Looking after your vehicle: It is easy to think that because your vehicle has been running fine up until now, that nothing needs doing to it before winter sets in. Although, something as small as low tyre pressure can have a huge impact on your ability to stop in an emergency. So, always be prepared.
Make sure your vehicle is ready for winter by carrying out these simple checks:

• Tyre pressure (refer to your vehicle manual).
• Tread depth.
• Wipers (make sure that they effectively clear the screen). finger scrape any frost or ice off beforehand.
• Windscreen washers (check they are working, and fluids are topped up.
• Lights (check they are all working and clean).
• Engine coolant (check level of anti-freeze).
• Keep de-icer, an ice scraper and warm hi-vis clothing in your vehicle.

Watch out in low winter sun: The low winter sun can dazzle even the most confident and experienced drivers. The glare can easily impair your vision and cause you to miss signs and lights, or pedestrians crossing the road. If you can’t see very well, chances are that other road users can’t either. To help avoid the dangers of low winter sun:

• Reduce your speed or stop all together.
• Wear sunglasses in bright sunlight.
• Make sure your windscreen and all vehicle windows are clean, both inside and out.

Did you know sun glare has contributed to an average of 28 road deaths per year in the UK since 2010. This includes pedestrians.

We do hope you have found that useful.