Safely handling li-ion batteries

These batteries exist in many shapes and sizes. They have the property that they can become instable in case of overcharging, deeply uncharging, high and low temperatures (-20> t >60° Celsius), internal damage through falling, short-circuiting, assembly error and aging. Internal short-circuiting and internal overheating can make the lithium ignite, which can lead to explosive combustion of the battery (thermal runaway). This type of blazing fire is hard to fight and can sometimes last long. In addition, very toxic substances develop (among others, hydrogen fluoride and lithium hydroxide). Because of these risks, specific fireproof storage facilities are necessary.

When purchasing, take note if a maximum endurance load is stated. The lifespan of a battery depends on the amount of usage applied. A battery is subject to wear and tear. Plus, be aware of a CE marking present, this is mandatory within the EU and indicates that the product complies with the relevant legal requirements. Check for the presence of a user manual, this must be written in the language of the user. When using batteries, primarily take note of the supplier's instructions.

Corporate Real Estate and Facilities (FCO), department Waste management, is responsible for collecting discarded batteries correctly and safely and prepare them for transport. For both rechargeable and non-rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, the following rules apply:

• The poles must be taped over when being disposed. The batteries must not be able to cause short-circuiting.
• If possible, dispose of them when discharged.
• For disposal, submit a request to the FCO Front Office: frontoffice.fco@vu.nl. FCO department Waste management takes care of collecting and storing the batteries, and organizing external waste transport in accordance with regulations.
• For more information about waste, see the waste disposal handbook.

If a lithium-ion battery overheats, leaks, smokes, swells up or burns, remove the plug from the socket and call the emergency number 22222 (5x2) or 020-5982222.

With lithium-ion batteries, serious ignition can occur. The gases that then are released are toxic. So do not breathe these in. These signals indicate that there is (likely) a problem with the battery: leaking fluid, heat, strong smell, smoke, sparks, etc. In this case, take the following steps:

• Immediately stop using the device and, if possible, remove it from the charger or the socket.
• If possible, bring the device outside and keep it away from flammable materials. Attention: only do this if this can be done safely!
• Break the emergency seal on the nearest alarm and call the VU emergency number 22222 (internal) or 020-5922222 (mobile) if smoke or fire develops. In case of doubt, always call the VU emergency number. Report your name and phone number, location of the incident (building) and that it concerns a lithium battery fire. Emergency numbers VU
• If possible, extinguish. Only small batteries AA/AAA or 9v may possible be extinguished with water or foam.
• Follow the instructions of in-house emergency response team members or security staff.

For substantial questions about fire safety, contact the Health, Safety and Environment department.

Brandweer.nl (in Dutch)

Tips for safe charging (in Dutch)