Commissioned by the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), the research aims to strengthen the Government’s understanding of risks associated with unsafe batteries and chargers following a surge in fire incidents linked to these products.

Examining Battery Failures and Safer Design

The OPSS engaged Warwick Manufacturing Group to conduct this research, focusing on:

• The causes of battery failures during real-world use and potential misuse.
• Safer materials and design practices that enhance lithium-ion battery safety.
• Potential gaps in existing product standards that have not kept pace with innovation.

The findings consolidate data from both UK and international sources, integrating insights from businesses and stakeholders across the supply chain. The study also included detailed laboratory testing and technical product inspections.

Government Response and Next Steps

The Government is now evaluating the findings to guide future safety measures. Alongside the research, an update on regulatory activities outlines how authorities have been responding to emerging safety concerns and highlights immediate steps being taken to mitigate risks.

A spokesperson for Warwick Manufacturing Group commented:
"We are delighted to have had the opportunity to assist the OPSS in achieving a deeper understanding of the root causes of these battery fires."

The OPSS has already ramped up enforcement efforts, conducting market surveillance and assessing e-bike and e-scooter products for compliance. In December, new statutory guidance was introduced, mandating that lithium-ion batteries for e-bikes include mechanisms to prevent thermal runaway – a key cause of battery fires.

Authorities are also conducting checks on retailers, both online and on the High Street, to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Rising Safety Concerns and Consumer Awareness

Since 2022, there have been 21 product recalls and 29 Product Safety Reports issued for non-compliant or unsafe e-bike and e-scooter batteries, reflecting growing concerns over their safety.

In response to these risks, the Government launched the ‘Buy Safe, Be Safe’ consumer awareness campaign in October 2024, offering guidance on purchasing safer e-bikes, e-scooters, and lithium-ion batteries.

As the fire safety industry continues to monitor the implications of these findings, the Fire Industry Association (FIA) will remain engaged in discussions on product safety and regulatory developments.

View the source.

Our eNews provides regular insight into industry trends, news headlines, and product and service information. For more articles like this Subscribe to our enews.