The hazards posed by small lithium-ion batteries can be devastating, says P&I club NorthStandard.
From handheld radios, cell phones, and power banks to vapes and flashlights, lithium-ion batteries are everywhere onboard vessels.
Compact and powerful, they’re essential, but when mishandled, they can turn into ticking time bombs.
While the maritime industry has rightly focused on the dangers of lithium-Ion battery fires on car carriers and container vessels, the hazards posed by small lithium-ion batteries are often overlooked and can be just as devastating in confined shipboard environments.
Real Fires, Real Lessons:
- Bridge Blaze on Tanker: A handheld radio battery overheated and ignited, burning down the bridge navigation and communication equipment causing US$3 million in damage.
- Cabin Combustion: Rechargeable power bank, vapes, and cell phones left charging overnight have sparked fires in crew quarters often due to unsupervised charging or poor storage.
- Power Bank Peril: A crew member’s power bank exploded during charging in a locker, igniting nearby clothing and causing smoke inhalation injuries.
Smart safety practices for small li-ion batteries onboard
Responsible Purchase (Vessel & Personal Use)
Responsible purchase is the first line of defence against lithium-ion battery incidents onboard. Batteries should be sourced from reputable manufacturers with proven safety records. It is essential to verify certifications such as UL, CE, or IEC standards to ensure compliance with international safety benchmarks. Bulk purchases from unknown or unverified suppliers should be avoided, as they may introduce substandard or counterfeit products. Compatibility between batteries, devices, and chargers must be confirmed to prevent electrical mismatches that could lead to overheating or failure. For vessel use, purchasing procurement should be documented in inventory logs to maintain traceability and accountability.
Storage & Handling
Proper storage and handling of lithium-ion batteries is critical to minimizing fire risks. Batteries should be kept in cool, dry, and well-ventilated spaces. Fireproof containers are recommended. Batteries should never be casually stored in drawers or near flammable materials. Stacking batteries or placing them near metal objects should be avoided to prevent accidental short circuits. For long-term storage, maintaining a charge level between 30–50% helps reduce chemical stress and prolong battery life. Personal devices and power banks should be stored separately from flammable materials to further reduce risk.
Charging
Charging practices must be strictly controlled. Only approved chargers should be used, and personal devices must never be charged unattended, especially overnight. Overcharging and deep discharging should be avoided, as both can accelerate battery degradation and increase the risk of thermal runaway.
Inspection & Maintenance
Routine inspection and maintenance are essential for identifying early signs of battery failure. Batteries should be checked regularly for swelling, leaks, or corrosion. Damaged batteries must be isolated and reported immediately. A Battery Management System (BMS) should be used to document compliance and ensure safety standards are met. Personal devices and accessories should be inspected periodically to detect wear or damage that could compromise safety.
Emergency Preparedness
Emergency preparedness is vital. Areas where batteries are stored or charged should be equipped with Class D fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Crew members must be trained to respond to thermal runaway incidents, and battery fire scenarios should be included in regular drills and Safety Management System (SMS) procedures.
Disposal & Documentation
Lithium-ion batteries must be disposed of as hazardous waste in accordance with MARPOL Annex V. Disposal activities should be logged in the Garbage Record Book, and end-of-life batteries must be handed over to certified recyclers to ensure safe and environmentally responsible handling.
Crew Awareness & Training
Regular safety sessions should be conducted onboard, and safety posters or warnings should be displayed in crew areas and cabins. All crew members must be familiar with standard operating procedures (SOPs) and emergency response steps. Personal electronics and power banks should be included in pre-joining safety briefings to ensure new crew are aware of the risks and procedures from day one.
Read the full article: NorthStandard – Small lithium-ion battery fires on ships