Page 1675 - Xmo Strata - Bulletin Archive

Safety, Health, Environmental & Quality Bulletin No 632

09 August 2018

Batteries

Please see enclosed a safety alert regarding faulty batteries that was shared with us by BP.

Most hand held portable plant is now battery operated, often using Lithium ion technology.
Unfortunately Lithium ion batteries can become dangerous if damaged, overcharged, or due to
manufacturing faults. Overheating of a single cell in the battery can start a chain reaction resulting in an
explosion or fire.

Manufacturing of Lithium ion batteries requires stringent quality controls to ensure microscopic
particles cannot cause short-circuits in the cell, however even the strictest quality controls are not able
to fully prevent this. The tiny short circuits caused by the stray particles cause localised hot-spots in the
cells, the cells because unstable can start producing flammable gases, this propagates to adjacent cells
and a chain reaction starts.

Overheating can also be caused in incorrect charging of the battery, this includes using incorrect charger
or charging at extreme temperatures. Generally Lithium ion batteries must not be charged below 0°C or
above 45°C, and should be avoided below 5°C, but always check the manufacturers recommendations.
Always use the correct manufacturers charger.

Never use a battery that is damaged or shows signs of overheating. If the battery is damaged remove it
from the tool, place in a safe location and notify your line manager.

We are all a product of learning. Every skill we have; everything we know; everything we believe and everything we do has
been learned throughout the course of our lives. Some of us learn best by studying graphs and charts, some through visual
presentations, and some by reading detailed text books. It is important that we receive information in a format that works for
us as individuals! That’s why at Xmo Strata we use a variety of communication platforms such as bulletins, newsletters,
videos etc. However, if you feel there is a better way for us to share health and safety information, please let us know.
Ultimately, your safety is in your hands – but we will do all we can to keep you well informed!