Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere in modern workplaces—powering laptops, power tools, e-bikes, e-scooters, and increasingly, large-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS). But alongside their convenience comes a critical and rapidly escalating fire safety risk that NSW businesses can no longer afford to ignore.
NSW has introduced new mandatory safety standards for e-bikes and e-scooters. Coupled with WHS regulations for large-scale lithium battery storage, evolving Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) guidance, and increasing insurance scrutiny, lithium-ion batteries are now classified as both a high-risk chemical hazard and a critical electrical safety concern.
Unlike traditional electrical fires, lithium-ion battery fires release toxic gases, can reach extremely high temperatures during thermal runaway, and can reignite days after being extinguished. They're harder to detect, harder to control, and pose unique risks to personnel, property, and compliance obligations under WHS legislation.
NSW has introduced mandatory safety standards for e-bikes and e-scooters as declared electrical articles. All e-bikes and e-scooters sold, hired, or supplied in NSW must meet specific safety standards, with certification and marking requirements being phased in. Check NSW Fair Trading for current compliance deadlines.
Under NSW Fair Trading regulations, e-bikes and e-scooters are now classified as "declared electrical articles." This means they must comply with:
Some imported devices may also reference overseas standards such as UL 2849 (USA), although this is not an Australian requirement.
Under WHS legislation, workplaces storing significant quantities of lithium-ion batteries must treat them as high-risk chemical hazards requiring formal emergency preparedness and consultation with Fire and Rescue NSW.
Workplaces storing significant quantities of lithium batteries (including lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries) may be required to:
Important: All workplaces have duties under the WHS Act to identify, assess, and control risks associated with lithium battery storage and charging, regardless of quantity. This includes smaller-scale operations like offices allowing staff to charge e-bikes or warehouses storing battery-powered equipment. Consult with SafeWork NSW and Fire and Rescue NSW to determine your specific obligations.
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) conducts ongoing research and provides guidance to better understand and combat lithium-ion battery fires, including work through specialized response teams.
FRNSW has tested various suppression methods to determine what actually works on lithium fires:
Research and operational experience has shown:
FRNSW has published specific guidance for BESS installations, which are increasingly common in commercial and industrial settings:
FRNSW research has highlighted disposal as a critical fire risk area. Damaged, degraded, or expired lithium batteries pose extreme hazards during transport and storage.
The rise of e-bikes and e-scooters has created significant challenges for strata schemes, apartment buildings, and shared workspaces. Charging restrictions, insurance implications, and disposal risks are now top-of-mind for building managers across NSW.
Many strata schemes are now banning or restricting e-bike and e-scooter charging in common areas due to:
Lithium battery fires have been reported in various settings across NSW, including residential buildings and waste collection operations. These incidents highlight the real-world risks and the importance of proper storage, charging, and disposal procedures.
E-bikes and e-scooters charging in shared corridors and common areas have been linked to fires requiring evacuation of residents. Standard building fire suppression systems may not effectively control lithium battery fires.
FRNSW reports an increase in waste truck fires caused by lithium batteries discarded in household rubbish bins. Compaction can trigger thermal runaway, often resulting in vehicle fires and service disruptions.
For specific incident data and statistics, refer to Fire and Rescue NSW annual reports and SafeWork NSW publications.
The same principles apply to office buildings, warehouses, and commercial premises. If you allow employees or visitors to charge personal devices on-site, you need clear policies, designated charging areas, and appropriate fire safety measures in place. This is part of your PCBU duty under the WHS Act.
Lithium-ion batteries present a unique dual hazard classification under WHS legislation—they are both an electrical safety risk and a chemical hazard. Understanding this dual nature is critical to managing them safely.
Thermal runaway is a self-sustaining chain reaction within a lithium-ion battery where internal heat generation exceeds heat dissipation, causing temperatures to rapidly escalate out of control.
Once thermal runaway begins, it is extremely difficult to stop. Traditional fire suppression methods are often ineffective, which is why prevention and early detection are so critical.
With new regulations taking effect and fire risks escalating, now is the time for NSW workplaces to take proactive action. Here's a comprehensive checklist to ensure your workplace is prepared and compliant.
Identify all lithium-ion batteries and battery-powered devices in your workplace:
Battery-powered equipment and charging systems must be included in regular electrical testing:
Pro Tip: Liberty Test & Tag can integrate lithium battery device testing into your regular inspection schedule—contact us to discuss.
Standard fire extinguishers may not be adequate for lithium battery fires. Ensure you have:
Liberty Test & Tag provides fire extinguisher testing and compliance checks to AS 1851 standards—ensuring your equipment is ready when needed.
Improper disposal is a leading cause of lithium battery fires. Implement these controls:
Lithium battery safety intersects with multiple compliance areas. Ensure your workplace covers:
Liberty Test & Tag provides end-to-end compliance services across Sydney, Canberra, and regional NSW—helping workplaces manage lithium battery risks alongside all electrical and fire safety obligations.
Comprehensive electrical appliance testing to AS/NZS 3760
Fire extinguisher, hose reel, and blanket compliance to AS 1851
6-monthly and annual testing ensuring safe evacuation routes
Defibrillator testing and maintenance to manufacturer standards
Critical circuit protection testing per AS/NZS 3760
Digital records, audit trails, and WHS documentation
Don't wait for an incident to occur. With lithium battery fire risks escalating and new NSW regulations in force, now is the time to ensure your workplace is compliant, protected, and prepared. Liberty Test & Tag can help you navigate these complex requirements with confidence.
This article is based on information from the following authoritative sources. Always verify current requirements with relevant regulators for your specific circumstances.
ABC News (10 February 2025)
NSW battery fires rise as authorities warn of growing risk from lithium-ion devices.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-02-10/nsw-battery-fires-rise-nsw-stats-standards/104917372Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW)
Lithium-ion Battery Fire Statistics 2022–2024 (as reported via ABC News and FRNSW publications).
SafeWork NSW
Lithium-ion Batteries – Fire, Explosion and WHS Risks
https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/hazards-a-z/lithium-ion-batteriesNSW Government – Fair Trading
Declared Electrical Articles & e-Micromobility Safety Standards (2025)
NSW WHS Regulation
Work Health and Safety Regulation – Requirements relating to emergency plans and hazardous battery storage
Australian Standards
AS/NZS 15194:2018 (E-bikes), AS/NZS 60335.2.114:2020 (E-scooter chargers), IEC 62133 (Battery cells), UN 38.3 (Transport of lithium batteries)
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about lithium-ion battery fire safety and NSW compliance requirements. It should not be considered legal or professional advice. Always consult with qualified WHS professionals, licensed electricians, and relevant authorities for specific guidance applicable to your workplace.
Note: This article is based on available information from SafeWork NSW, Fire and Rescue NSW, and industry sources current as of January 2025. Specific regulatory requirements, thresholds, timelines, and standards may vary and are subject to change. Always verify current obligations with SafeWork NSW, Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Fair Trading, and relevant regulators for your specific circumstances.