In edition 2 of the “Lithium-ion Battery Fires: What We Know So Far”, the Maritime Professional Council of the UK (MPC) warns of the rising risks and dangers of lithium-ion battery fires to ships, boats and their crews.
The maritime industry faces increasing incidents and fires due to lithium-ion technology, particularly with the growing use of electric vehicles (EVs) and a myriad of devices powered by these batteries. Lithium-ion batteries have a high energy density, making them efficient but also prone to catastrophic failures if mishandled.
The guide makes five key points regarding safety issues and implications:
1 Thermal runaway risks: understanding thermal runaway is critical as it leads to uncontrollable fires.
2 Firefighting challenges: traditional firefighting methods may be ineffective against lithium-ion battery fires due to their unique characteristics.
3 Regulatory gaps: current regulations do not sufficiently address lithium-ion battery safety, highlighting the need for updated guidelines.
4 Training deficiencies: crew members often lack training specific to lithium-ion battery risks, increasing vulnerability to incidents.
5 Collaborative solutions: cooperation among stakeholders, including ship operators, maritime regulators, and emergency responders, is vital for enhancing safety measures.
Reports indicate that battery-related fires are a significant and rising cause of marine insurance claims, with an increase in incidents linked to lithium-ion technology.
Meanwhile, insights from professionals in the maritime and fire safety sectors emphasise the need for comprehensive approaches to battery management and fire prevention.
Many incidents stem from inadequate safety protocols and a lack of understanding among crew members and vessel operators about how to handle lithium-ion batteries safely.
The dangers include thermal runaway, which can cause fires and explosions, and the release of toxic gases during combustion.
The guide includes detailed analyses of past incidents to illustrate the potential dangers and the importance of understanding lithium-ion battery behaviour during fires.
Several reported incidents illustrate the consequences of lithium-ion battery fires on vessels, including car carriers and container ships, leading to significant financial losses and safety hazards.
The dangers are not confined to sea-going vessels, but reported examples include explosions on a canal boat in the UK and a fire on a yacht due to inoperable battery management systems.
Current regulations are insufficient to address the unique challenges posed by lithium-ion batteries in maritime environments. Enhanced training for crew members on fire safety and emergency response is crucial to mitigate risks. The maritime industry must collaborate with manufacturers, regulatory bodies, and emergency services to develop comprehensive safety protocols and training programs. Adoption of best practices, such as thorough inspections and maintenance of battery systems, is essential for preventing fires.
The guide’s authors stress: “The growing prevalence of lithium-ion batteries in the maritime sector necessitates a proactive approach to safety and risk management.”
They conclude that effective strategies must include ongoing education, robust safety regulations, and collaborative efforts to ensure the safe transport and usage of lithium-ion batteries. Immediate action, the report warns, is required to address the challenges posed by lithium-ion batteries to prevent future incidents and protect lives and property in the maritime industry.
Download the guide: Lithium-ion battery fires – what we know so far – Edition 2