Lithium-Ion Batteries Storage Building

The rapid rise of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS’s) that use Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery technology brings with it massive potential – but also a significant range of risks. Lithium-ion batteries or rechargeable batteries may seem harmless, but they harbour safety risks that are often underestimated. With their very high energy density, they can, under certain conditions, ignite spontaneously or become unstable and explode when heated. If a technical defect occurs or the battery fails, this can have serious consequences for people, the company and the environment. To date, there are no legal guidelines for the storage and supply of lithium-ion batteries. It is therefore up to each company to decide which safety measures to take but, as lithium is a hazardous substance, a Risk Assessment should be conducted to support this. Where appropriate, an assessment in compliance with the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) should be undertaken to ensure that charging areas are sufficiently remote from any hazardous materials such as flammable liquids and gases that may be stored or in use on the premises.

For the safe storage and charging of lithium-ion batteries in a fire-protected environment, we recommend the use of SECURALL safety storage buildings. These building models have been specifically developed for the storage and charging of lithium-ion batteries and offer certified fire protection with a fire resistance of 2 to 4 hrs from the inside out and from the outside in. Securall battery storage buildings constructed of all-welded 16 or 12 gauge steel. Inner wall is constructed of 20 gauge steel. The double wall construction contains 3" of air space throughout. All Lithium-Ion Battery Storage Buildings are designed in accordance with the standards set forth by NFPA Code 30 and comply with OSHA and EPA regulations. . They also help separate the batteries from incompatible and combustible materials.

This prevents a fire from the outside affecting the batteries inside the cabinet and a fire inside the cabinet caused by the stored lithium-ion batteries or rechargeable batteries, from spreading to the surrounding area. This safety concept gives your employees and the rescue services valuable time to evacuate the building and bring the fire under control.