James Cunningham discusses the all important subject of on board safety surrounding lithium-ion batteries: how to store them correctly and ensuring that crew are well trained and prepared for any possible emergency that may occur
Over recent years, the number of fires on yachts has grown exponentially, with many of these incidents being tracked back to the lithium-ion batteries, notably those used in water toys.
Managing lithium-ion battery risks on yachts
The use of lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries aboard yachts has surged in recent years, powering everything from water toys like seabobs and e-bikes to maintenance tools. While these batteries are highly efficient and compact, they carry significant risks, particularly when mishandled or improperly stored. Yacht owners and crews must be proactive in addressing these risks to ensure the safety of everyone onboard.
The growing risks of lithium-ion batteries
Li-ion batteries are favoured for their compact size and ability to store large amounts of energy, making them ideal for use in various yacht equipment. However, they are not without their dangers. Exposure to heat, humidity, saltwater, or physical damage can cause these batteries to fail, leading to dangerous incidents such as fires or explosions.
A major concern onboard yachts is the storage and handling of loose Li- ion batteries, particularly those used in water toys, power tools and even radios. Loose batteries are highly susceptible to overheating, physical damage and short-circuiting, which can lead to thermal runaway.
Thermal runaway and its hazards
One of the most dangerous risks associated with Li-ion batteries is thermal runaway, a phenomenon in which the battery overheats and undergoes a chemical reaction that can lead to fire, explosion and the release of dangerous gases. Thermal runaway is unpredictable and can be triggered by physical damage, poor storage or overcharging.
While fires are the most apparent risk, thermal runaway also presents several other hazards:
- Vapour cloud explosions: combustible gases released during thermal runaway can accumulate, creating an explosive vapour cloud. If ignited, this cloud can cause severe damage.
- Toxic fumes: the burning of Li-ion batteries produces hazardous gases such as hydrogen fluoride, which can cause severe respiratory damage or even death.
- Explosions and shrapnel: Li-ion batteries can explode unexpectedly, ejecting burning cells at high speeds, which can spread fire and cause injury.
- Self-oxidising fires: intense fires originating deep within the battery are initially difficult to detect and even harder to extinguish, making them particularly dangerous in confined spaces.
Safe storage and charging practices
To reduce the risks associated with Li-ion batteries, proper storage and charging practices are essential. These practices are critical for protecting both the yacht and its crew.
- Marine-approved equipment: always use batteries and chargers specifically designed for marine environments. These products are built to withstand the harsh conditions found aboard yachts and offer enhanced safety and performance.
- Certified storage and charging containers: loose batteries should never be stored or charged in unsuitable containers, such as aluminium boxes or lithium-safe bags. These storage solutions often fail to account for the risks of gas accumulation and potential explosions. Instead, crews should use secure, certified containers designed for both storage and charging. LiVault offers specially designed containers that are tested and certified to safely contain fires, explosions and gas emissions, reducing the likelihood of incidents aboard yachts.
- Industry regulations: the MCA MGN 681 guidelines were developed to help the industry but now need to be updated. A certified testing protocol such as the M02/22 test by DMT TUV Nord should be in place for all potential charging and storage containers.
- Regular Inspections: batteries should be regularly checked for signs of damage, swelling or leakage. Any signs of wear or malfunction should be addressed immediately to prevent the risk of fire.
As a bonus , yacht insurance companies favour vessels equipped with safe battery storage solutions to mitigate potential risks.
This translates into fewer claims and lower insurance premiums, making it an attractive choice for insurers.
Crew training and emergency preparedness
Preparation and the training of crew members are essential to minimising the risks of Li-ion battery-related incidents. Yacht crews must be well- versed in the proper procedures for storing, handling and charging Li-ion batteries.
In addition, clear emergency response protocols should be established to ensure that crew members are prepared for a potential fire or explosion and the resulting toxic vapour cloud.
Training should focus on:
- Proper battery handling and storage: crew members should be aware of the correct methods for handling, storing and charging Li-ion batteries. This knowledge will help prevent accidents and ensure batteries are kept in safe conditions.
- Emergency response protocols: in the event of a fire or explosion, crew members must know how to respond quickly and effective. Conventional fire extinguishers may not be effective for Li-ion fires, so having an appropriate charging and storage solution in place and knowing how to evacuate the vessel safely is essential.
- Crew should be encouraged to report dropped batteries.
Don’t forget power tools: another source of risk
In addition to water toys, many yachts use power tools that rely on Li-ion batteries for operation. These tools are often handled frequently, which increases the likelihood of accidental damage or overheating. Like water toys, power tools pose a similar risk when their batteries are not stored correctly or are exposed to harsh conditions.
Power tools and their batteries should be stored and charged in designated, secure compartments, such as the Raclan Box from Livault. By implementing proper storage practices, the risk of battery malfunctions and thermal runaway can be minimised.
For more details Tel: +34 971 094800 or visit www.livault.com
