Industry steps up with lithium battery guidance
The UK Warehousing Association (UKWA) and the UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA) have published new guidance to help warehouse operators manage the risks associated with the growing use and storage of lithium-ion batteries.
THE TWO trade bodies have worked in parallel to provide practical advice covering both smaller batteries and larger traction batteries used to power warehouse equipment. The guidance was launched at a UKWA Member Connect event in Felixstowe, where Clare Bottle from the UKWA and David Goss from the UKMHA discussed key highlights for warehouse operators.
Batteries are vital to decarbonising the economy, whether through mobility, like e-bikes and scooters, or machinery such as forklifts, which traditionally ran on gas.
However, while rare, there is a risk that unmonitored batteries can go into thermal runaway, causing fire.
The guidance covers recommendations including storing batteries in cool, dry conditions, limiting long-term storage, and separating battery types. There are also pointers on how to monitor stock, prepare emergency plans and train staff.
Clare Bottle, chief executive of UKWA, said: “Developments in battery technology are having a huge positive impact, making our lives more convenient, changing the way we move around, and helping the transition away from fossil fuels. All of these batteries move through the supply chain before ending up in businesses or people’s homes, so it is vital we get the storage and handling of them right.“
“There’s no reason, with proper precautions, that batteries can’t be stored safely. Many warehouses are doing so already. This guidance will help others get to grips with the issue and understand how they can manage the risks. It is a market that will only grow, so it’s important the UK has a wide range of warehouse operators equipped with this knowledge.”
David Goss, technical director of UKMHA, added: “Lithium-ion batteries have been transformative, not only for consumers but also for powering the equipment essential to today’s fast and efficient logistics sector.
“As with any technology, sensible precautions are necessary to minimise the risk of an incident. Whilst lithium-ion batteries have proven safe and reliable, effective risk management requires an understanding of the potential for hazards due to the release of stored energy or chemicals.
“Through this collaboration, UKWA and UKMHA have developed complementary guidance addressing the storage of both industrial truck traction batteries and the smaller batteries in warehouse environments.”
