New Energy Battery Explosion Site Disposal

Are lithium-ion batteries a disaster waiting to happen?

With billions of electrical items now containing lithium-ion batteries, Phil Clark, Emerging Energy Technologies Lead for the National Fire Chiefs Council said that: “Fires involving the incorrect disposal of lithium-ion batteries are a disaster waiting to happen.

What happens if you throw a battery in a rubbish bin?

Batteries thrown in household rubbish bins cause about 700 fires every year in dustcarts and waste-processing centres, local authorities say. Lithium-ion batteries can explode if damaged or crushed. The Environmental Services Association says resulting fires cost fire services and waste operators some £158m a year.

Can lithium ion batteries explode?

Lithium-ion batteries can explode if damaged or crushed. The Environmental Services Association says resulting fires cost fire services and waste operators some £158m a year. Non-profit organisation Material Focus, which surveyed local authorities, runs an online search tool to help people find their nearest recycling point.

Are lithium-ion batteries a threat to our fire services?

Mark Andrews, Waste and Recycling Fires Lead for the National Fire Chiefs Council, explains what a challenge these fires present and the impact this is having on our fire services. “Fires involving waste have always been challenging but lithium-ion batteries add significantly to this by creating unknown and unpredictable risks.

What happens if you don't recycle lithium-ion batteries?

These batteries can become crushed or damaged in bin lorries or waste sites if they aren’t recycled and can lead to fires at waste centres and in bin lorries across the UK. When crushed or damaged lithium-ion batteries can be dangerous to the public, waste operators and firefighters as they cause fires that are especially challenging to tackle.

Can you put batteries in a waste bin?

WRWA would like to remind residents that they should not put their batteries in a waste bin, recycling sack or wheely bin. Loose batteries, or electricals with batteries hidden inside, do need to be recycled separately. You’ll find advice on where you can drop them off on our website.