Pye-Barker Fire & Safety Promotes Lithium-Ion Battery Safety During Fire Prevention Week

Pye-Barker Fire & Safety: Promoting Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

In recognition of Fire Prevention Week, celebrated from October 4 to 10, Pye-Barker Fire & Safety, America's largest provider of integrated fire protection and safety services, is issuing vital safety recommendations focusing on lithium-ion batteries—an integral part of modern commercial settings. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has adopted the theme "Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging is a Superpower," continuing a trend of emphasizing lithium-ion battery safety for the second consecutive year.

Lithium-ion batteries have become commonplace, not just in consumer electronics, but also in commercial environments where they power essential tools. With this rapid integration into workplaces, it is crucial to adopt safe handling and charging practices. The batteries are commonly used in backup systems for servers, equipment like forklifts, and even in personal items brought in by employees, such as e-bikes and scooters.

Joseph Hightower, Chief Operations Officer of Pye-Barker Fire & Safety, points out, "Our technicians frequently discover unapproved use of understaffed or ill-fitted UPS systems and charging stations in areas that were never intended for such equipment." This underscores the increasing importance of tailored detection and suppression systems that correspond to the modern equipment situated within commercial spaces.

To ensure safety related to lithium-ion batteries, Pye-Barker advocates adherence to five essential steps:

1. Inventory and check code: Conduct a thorough inspection of your premises, documenting every location where batteries are stored, charged, or installed. Ensure this exhaustive list aligns with the coverage of your existing fire protection plan.

2. Buy listed, charge as intended: Invest in equipment that has been certified by a reputable testing laboratory. Always use the manufacturer's designated charger or a recognized equivalent to eliminate potential hazards.

3. Dedicate a supervised charging space: Designate a specific area for charging these batteries that is constructed from non-combustible materials, located away from exits and staircases. Prioritize wall outlets over extension cords or power strips and enforce a strict no-overnight charging policy.

4. Match detection and suppression to the hazard: As lithium-ion batteries can vent flammable gases prior to showing signs of smoke or flame, facilities should implement early-warning detection systems coupled with monitored alarms, adequate ventilation, and a suppression strategy tailored to the specific installation.

5. Train for warning signs: Facility management should educate employees on the signs of battery malfunction, such as unusual heat, swelling, hissing sounds, odors, or smoke. Pye-Barker’s teams offer on-site guidance, collaborating with facility managers to customize detection, suppression, and inspection protocols suited to each business.

Pye-Barker Fire & Safety is committed to maintaining the highest standards in life safety systems. With over 250 locations across the United States and a dedicated workforce of 9,000 professionals, Pye-Barker is a reputable name, certified as a Great Place to Work® and recognized on the Inc. 5000 and SDM 100 lists. To discover more about their services, get in touch with your local branch or visit pyebarkerfs.com. By adopting these safety measures, commercial facilities can enhance their overall fire safety strategies while minimizing risks associated with lithium-ion battery usage.