Clause 7.8 of BS 5306-8:2023* states “For lithium-ion batteries, water or water-based extinguishers should be provided to cool individual small rechargeable devices that are no longer on charge.”

Clause 7.8 states, “This subclause covers only lithium-ion batteries in individual small rechargeable devices (such as laptops, mobile phones, e-cigarettes and portable power tools). It does not cover multiple devices or lithium-ion batteries in larger devices…

…For the purposes of this document, lithium-ion batteries in individual small rechargeable devices are not considered to be live electrical equipment.

Rechargeable batteries found in, or used to power, individual small rechargeable devices are increasingly likely to be lithium-ion type, although other rechargeable battery chemistries are still common.

When one of these devices or their charging device fails, e.g. through overcharging, modification, fault or damage, the lithium-ion battery can catch fire. These fires are sudden, intensely hot and escalate quickly. It is likely that a lithium-ion battery will burn out rather than be extinguished. Current research indicates that rapid cooling is recommended.

If an individual small rechargeable device containing lithium-ion batteries is on charge, it needs to be disconnected/isolated before any attempt is made to cool it.

If a lithium-ion battery fails, it can catch fire and ignite other materials.”

It also adds a warning that, “Fires involving lithium-ion batteries are unpredictable and can cause fire to spread significantly, increasing the danger.”

*BS 5306-8:2023 is the British Standard for Fire extinguishing installations and equipment on premises Part 8: Selection and positioning of portable fire extinguishers – Code of practice. All information provided is used from this version of the British Standard.

Every effort is made to ensure that the information provided is accurate and up to date as of time of publishing. Any sources of information are stated appropriately. No legal responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions.