With UK fire services now tackling at least three Li-ion battery fires a day, it’s clear that stronger regulation and enforcement is urgently required to prevent the sale, use and modification of poor-quality and potentially dangerous batteries used in e-bikes and scooters.
By Adrian Simmonds, QBE Europe on 01 July 2025
More than eight million vapes are thrown away or recycled incorrectly every week in the UK, resulting in environmental damage and an increased risk of lithium-ion battery fires, according to non-profit group Material Focus.
By Kerry Reals on 19 December 2024
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By Kerry Reals on 05 November 2024
A fire that broke out in a block of flats in Plaistow, east London on 21 October was caused by the failure of a lithium battery, London Fire Brigade (LFB) has confirmed.
By Kerry Reals on 22 October 2024
Lithium-ion batteries used to power equipment such as e-bikes and electric vehicles are increasingly linked to serious fires in workplaces and residential buildings, so it’s essential those in charge of such environments assess and control the risks.
By Matt Humby, Firechief® Global on 28 June 2024
The number of fires linked to lithium-ion batteries in the UK increased by 46 per cent in 2023, compared with the previous year, new research from business insurer QBE has shown.
By Kerry Reals on 03 June 2024
18 February, the date chosen to play host to National Battery Day, is a particularly important one for the history of the battery. The day marks the birth of the father of battery science, Alessandro Volta, credited as the creator of the Voltaic Pile, an early form of what we know today as the electric battery.
By Phil Pinnington, British Safety Council on 19 February 2024
As global economies look to achieve their net zero targets, there is an increased focus on the development of non-fossil fuel alternative energy sources, such as battery power. The demand for batteries over the next 20 years is predicted to increase twentyfold. This presents numerous opportunities for those in the battery production supply chain who will need to gear up to meet this increased demand. However, despite the glow of opportunity, it is important that the safety risks posed by batteries are effectively managed.
By Liam Jagger, Pinsent Masons on 07 February 2024
