Lithium-ion risk management guidance
Lithium-ion battery use and storage is widespread, given their use in a wide range of applications from powered hand tools to large workplace machinery vehicles and electric vehicles. Whilst generally safe, batteries can develop faults or suffer damage, as well as developing issues as a result of poor charging practices.
The Aviva guidance on this page suggests a variety of ways to help to reduce the potential for fire events and the associated losses from lithium-ion battery use, storage and charging.
Chris Andrews, Director of Risk Management Solutions
“With the widespread use of Lithium-ion batteries and other battery technologies, it's important to stay informed about the possible risks associated with using these batteries. At Aviva, we aim to proactively share information and advice on how to reduce risks and we hope that this guidance can help to protect your business."
Property risk management
12 top tips for electric vehicle chargers
Whilst generally considered safe, the risk of fire in connection with electric vehicle charging can increase when systems are poorly installed, maintained and managed. Our guidance provides 12 tips for external charging stations and the associated infrastructure.
Electric and hybrid vehicle charging
Driven by the need for lower emissions, better fuel economy and higher efficiency, electric and hybrid vehicles are growing in popularity and are a common sight on the road network. There are a number of important considerations when it comes to arrangements for the siting of chargers and the charging activity itself.
General considerations - Lithium-ion batteries
Our guidance provides a detailed overview of the risks associated with the use, storage and charging of lithium-ion batteries in the workplace across a wide range of applications. It also gives recommendations to help to reduce the risks of loss or damage.
High voltage batteries
This guidance focusses on the use, storage and handling of smaller battery systems in the commercial environment, such as motor trader servicing vehicles, small warehouse storage units and emergency lighting systems and battery powered vehicles such as golf carts or forklift trucks.
Portable tools
Lithium-ion battery-powered tools are common in the workplace and whilst they're generally safe and reliable, they do introduce a fire hazard if not carefully managed. This guidance discusses some of the main concerns and what you can do to help reduce this risk potential for significant loss and consequences to business trading.
Storage and transit
The transit and storage of lithium-ion batteries, goods containing such batteries, and the use of lithium-ion battery powered equipment (such as forklift trucks) in storage environments requires careful management to help reduce the potential for fire events. This guidance outlines the main risk exposures and recommended risk controls in respect of the storage and transit of lithium-ion batteries.
Motor risk management
Awareness when working with electric and hybrid vehicles
There are many additional workplace hazards imposed on the motor trade when dealing with electric and hybrid vehicles. This guidance will help you understand these hazards for example manual handling risks, high voltage components and cabling capable of delivering fatal electric shock and the potential for increased battery temperature, thermal runaway and fire.
Our Specialist Partner to help manage your Lithium-ion risks
To access this solution at preferential rates and terms, contact our Specialist Partner.
Denios
Hazardous Materials Storage and Handling
DENIOS specialise in the design, manufacture and supply of hazardous materials storage and handling solutions. They offer standard and bespoke storage solutions and technical support.
Need further help or assistance?
Call our Risk Help Line to speak to our Risk Management Solutions team for help and advice on
0345 366 6666
Opening times: Monday - Friday* 9:00am - 5:00pm
Email us at: riskadvice@aviva.com
* Excludes Bank Holidays. The cost of calls to 03 prefixed numbers are charged at national call rates (charges may vary dependent on your network provider) and are usually included in inclusive minute plans from landlines and mobiles. For our joint protection telephone calls may be recorded and/or monitored.