Lithium-ion Battery Safety
In NSW, portable lithium-ion batteries have become a leading fire hazard, posing serious risks in homes, workplaces, and waste facilities.
By taking simple steps at each stage of a battery's life cycle-shopping, using, charging, and recycling — you can protect yourself, your loved ones, your workers and your community.
Shop
- Buy safely: Choose batteries and chargers from reliable manufacturers. Look for the Australian Regulatory Compliance Mark (tick) directly on the product. Ensure the charger purchased is suitable for the device or micromobility vehicle (e-scooter, e-bike).
- Verify approval: Avoid items without visible approval marks. Ask the seller for proof or report unapproved goods to NSW Fair Trading.
- Know declared articles: When purchasing a charger, consider whether it is a 'declared article'. This means it has been approved by the Commissioner for Fair Trading or a recognised external approval scheme and carries the appropriate approval mark and complies with the relevant Australian Standard. See the full list of electrical goods that can be assessed and declared articles.
Charge
- Be prepared: Install smoke or heat alarms in rooms where batteries are charged. Charge large batteries (e.g. for e-scooters or power tools) in garages, sheds, or carports, away from living areas and exits.
- Use the right charger: If the charger didn't come with the device or battery don't use it. Just because the plug fits, it doesn't mean it's compatible. Only use approved chargers to charge your battery. Look for the Australian Regulatory Compliance Mark (tick) to ensure safety and compatibility.
- Charge responsibly: Avoid charging batteries while sleeping or away from home. Disconnect devices once fully charged to prevent overheating. Never use and charge devices at the same time in bed. Never charge in exits or anywhere that would prevent you from escaping in the event of a fire.
- Choose safe surfaces: Always charge devices on hard, non-flammable surfaces like concrete or tiles. Never charge on beds, sofas, or carpets.
Recycle
- Don't bin batteries: Lithium-ion batteries should never go into home waste or recycling bins. They can cause fires during waste collection, transportation, handling and processing.
- Recycle safely: Take small, undamaged batteries to a battery recycling drop-off point. Tape over battery terminals with clear adhesive tape before carefully placing them in the collection bin.
- Find drop-off locations: For safe disposal, visit the NSW EPA website here
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