Consumer Alert: Lithium-Ion Battery Risks Highlighted by Australian Watchdog

Consumers are being cautioned about the potential dangers associated with lithium-ion batteries, widely used in smartphones, tablets, and various household items, following a series of hazardous incidents, including one fatal explosion.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) issued a report that underscores the risks tied to lithium-ion batteries. These batteries, often referred to as Li-ion batteries, are prevalent in numerous household devices, including portable chargers, cordless vacuums, toys, camping equipment, mobile phones, laptops, tablets, e-scooters, e-bikes, and power tools.

Despite their ubiquity, the report emphasises that Li-ion batteries carry “rare but serious fire hazards.” The ACCC highlights that Li-ion battery failures can lead to “particularly catastrophic” outcomes due to the flammable and volatile liquid contained within the batteries.

Heat generation is inherent in the normal operation of Li-ion batteries. However, uncontrolled failures can result in a combination of heat and volatile liquid electrolyte, leading to severe, self-sustaining fires that are challenging to extinguish and can spontaneously reignite. Multiple linked cells within a battery pack can exacerbate the situation, causing larger fires.

At least one fatality linked to a lithium-ion battery fire has been reported in Australia. Notably, an e-bike with a faulty Li-ion battery exploded in a Sydney home, causing a fire that damaged the property and a nearby vehicle.

The ACCC disclosed that it had received 231 product safety reports related to Li-ion batteries over the past five years, resulting in approximately 89,000 product recalls. Among these recalls, 20 were prompted by fire risks, overheating, or short-circuiting.

The ACCC expressed growing concern over Li-ion battery fires causing property damage and severe injuries, including burns, chemical exposure, and smoke inhalation. The organisation cited statistics indicating a rise in emergency room presentations related to Li-ion battery incidents in Victoria, with burns being the most common injuries.

Several Australian states reported a significant number of fires attributed to Li-ion batteries, highlighting the need for increased consumer awareness and safety precautions. As the prevalence of Li-ion batteries in households continues to grow due to the increasing reliance on technology, the ACCC emphasised the importance of safe charging practices, proper storage, the use of high-quality batteries, and responsible disposal to mitigate these risks.