Lithium-ion battery charging (battery operated tools, electric vehicles (cars, bikes, scooters), smartphones, e-cigarettes etc.)

Where battery charging cabinets are provided, these must be CE compliant fire resistant safety cabinets.

Charging stations should be positioned external to the building undergoing construction/refurbishment.

If located within the building under construction/refurbishment charging stations require suitable fire resistant compartmentation (minimum 60 minutes) and an active means of fire detection should be provided.

Charging of electric vehicles should be conducted at least 10m away from buildings, temporary structures, combustible storage, and hazardous installations where reasonably practicable.

If the required distance is not feasible, a fire risk assessment must be conducted to determine appropriate control measures.

Charging stations should ideally be installed on a time clock switch to prevent out of working hours charging.

Suitable class fire extinguishers must be in proximity of the charging point. (e.g. Lithium Battery Fire (LFX) available via Bull Safety.

The charging of site equipment within the project offices or welfare environments is not permitted.

Suitable arrangements should be provided for the workforce to dispose of Lithium-ion batteries. Contact your waste disposal contractor for advice.

Suitable arrangement for the storing of e-bikes/scooters must be provided. These should be located external to the building away from fire exits and emergency escape routes. The charging of this equipment must not be permitted on site.

Only use chargers, devices, and batteries from reputable manufacturers and do not mix between different manufacturers.

Chargers and batteries must be maintained in good condition.

Do not store batteries in direct sunlight.

Do not store or transport batteries in tool bags loose with other conducting tools/materials.

Place insulation tape over the terminals of batteries to prevent sparks - dead batteries can still spark. Tape helps prevent sparking and the discharge of energy.

If batteries are damaged use battery disposal bags / plastic zip bags and only dispose of them in designated areas.