Lithium iron phosphate battery safety

Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries are commonly used in various devices and equipment. It's important to follow safety procedures when handling, storing, and disposing of these batteries to prevent hazards.

When LFP batteries are not used, stored, installed, disposed of, or charged properly, they can overheat, leak, burst, or cause a fire or explosion. Improper use of batteries can also increase the risk of electrical shock. Batteries can be damaged by physical impact (e.g., dropped, crushed, punctured), improper charging (e.g., not following manufacturers' instructions), and exposure to certain temperatures (e.g., high temperatures and below freezing), which can increase the risk of an adverse event. [1]

Charging rechargeable lithium-ion batteries safely includes:

• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper charging
• Only use the manufacturer-approved charging device and battery
• Make sure the charging device has a recognized Canadian certification mark (e.g., CSA, cUL, cETL)
• Unplug the charger or remove the battery when charging is complete. Do not leave the battery in the charger beyond the recommended charging time
• Do not use uncertified chargers, as they can pose a risk of electrical shock, fire and explosion
• Charge the battery when it is at room temperature - do not attempt to charge batteries in below-freezing temperatures (unless permitted by the manufacturer)
• Do not charge batteries on a soft surface, as it can cause heat to be trapped around the battery
• Do not charge near flammable materials, such as paper, cardboard, cloth, etc.
• Do not use extension cords. Extension cords change the level of electrical resistance and may affect how the battery charges.
• Do not charge damaged or defective batteries
• Charge in areas that are well-ventilated and where there's access to fire extinguishers, emergency eye-wash stations or showers, and other equipment that may be needed

[4] To safely store lithium-ion batteries:

• Do not store batteries where they can touch metal (coins, keys, tools, etc.), as they can catch fire or explode when in direct contact with metal
• Remove batteries from devices (e.g., power tools) if they are not being used for extended periods if recommended by the manufacturer
• Store batteries at a charge between 30 and 50% when not used for long periods of time. Check the batteries every 3 months, and re-charge to 50% if needed.
• Store batteries in original packaging or case and in a cool dark place away from ignition sources and chemicals (do not store in a sub-freezing environment)
• Store batteries in a dry location, away from flammable and combustible products or anything that can catch fire

[4] Other health and safety tips for working with lithium-ion batteries:

• Keep batteries away from direct sunlight and ignition sources, and do not leave them in hot vehicles
• Make sure the appropriate battery for the device is used and that it has been installed correctly
• If the battery overheats or there is a different smell, noise (hissing), bulging, cracking, change in the shape or colour, or anything other sign that is not usual, move the battery or charger away from items that can catch fire if safe to do so.
• If a fire occurs, evacuate the area immediately and call emergency services. Lithium batteries can explode and cause injuries.
• Properly dispose of old or defective batteries (do not put them in regular garbage or recycling) - many retailers and local governments have battery recycling programs or hazardous waste collection. Make sure to follow the applicable regulations for waste disposal
• Replace batteries when they are damaged or show signs of overheating. Only use batteries recommended by the manufacturer
• Avoid using poorly manufactured or after-market batteries.
• Install a smoke detector in the area where the battery is charged. When charging in a garage or shed, make sure you can hear the alarm from the workstation or house
• Make sure your workplace's ventilation and fire protection(e.g., fire suppression) systems comply with the applicable legislation, including occupational health and safety regulations, Building Codes, and Fire Codes
• Develop emergency response procedures and first-aid measures to address scenarios related to battery charging, including fires, explosions, worker exposures, and thermal runaway (see manufacturers' instructions and safety data sheets)
• Know how to safely use a fire extinguisher
• Provide training and instruction to workers on how to safely use, store, dispose of, and charge batteries and what to do in the event of an emergency
• Do not use different types of batteries together (e.g., do not mix old ones with new ones, do not mix rechargeable batteries with non-rechargeable ones)
• Do not modify or tamper with the batteries
• Do not use a battery if you detect overheating, an odour, a change in colour, a change in shape, leaking, odd noises, or other defects
• Do not block emergency exits

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