solar panels and energy storage containers at a renewable energy facility under a cloudy sky

Lithium-ion batteries

Explore expert-driven resources to help you understand and manage the risks of lithium-ion batteries.

Stay ahead of emerging risks

Navigating lithium-ion battery risks

Lithium-ion batteries are transforming industries, but they also introduce complex fire and explosion hazards that can impact property and operations. As usage expands, understanding and managing these risks becomes essential. Smart risk strategies start with knowing what's at stake.

  • Fire and explosion hazards

    Lithium-ion batteries can experience thermal runaway, a rapid and uncontrollable rise in temperature that may lead to fire or explosion. Understanding these hazards is essential for evaluating property exposures and implementing effective loss prevention strategies.

  • Complex and evolving risk landscape

    As lithium-ion batteries are integrated into more systems, their risk profile continues to evolve. Staying informed through expert research helps organizations anticipate new challenges and adapt their risk management practices accordingly.

  • Impact on property and operational continuity

    Battery failures can result in significant damage to facilities and disrupt critical operations. Proactive risk management helps organizations safeguard assets, minimize downtime, and maintain business continuity in the face of emerging energy storage technologies.

Engineering expertise

Engineering guidance for loss prevention

Explore FM's engineering-based data sheets for guidance on preventing property loss and managing hazards, including those related to lithium-ion batteries.

  • two construction workers in safety gear discussing plans with a tablet and clipboard in an industrial setting

    FM property loss prevention data sheet

    FM’s Data Sheets provide engineering-based recommendations for protecting property from a wide range of hazards—including those associated with lithium-ion batteries.

    View data sheet
  • electric vehicle lithium-ion battery pack with integrated orange high-voltage power cable

    FM Boiler Re lithium-ion hazard guide

    A comprehensive overview of lithium-ion battery hazards, developed specifically for FM Boiler Re partners. This guide will help you understand key risk factors and mitigation strategies.

  • lithium-ion battery modules with cylindrical cells arranged in a metal housing

    Lithium-ion battery checklist for storage and warehouses

    A practical tool for evaluating lithium-ion battery exposures in storage and warehousing facilities. Designed for loss control teams and insureds.

Training and videos

Expand your knowledge of lithium-ion batteries

Access expert-led training modules that address the complexities of lithium-ion battery fires, energy storage system risks, and best practices for safe facility management.

engineers inspecting fire protection system in an industrial facility using laptop and safety gear

Fire protection in lithium-ion battery facilities

This training module introduces the challenges of lithium-ion battery incidents. While designed for responders, it offers valuable context for partner companies evaluating risk.

Lithium-ion battery undergoing thermal runaway and fire during safety test

Impact of state of charge

A short video demonstrating how a battery’s state of charge influences its hazard potential—useful for understanding the dynamics of thermal runaway and fire risk.

large-scale lithium-ion battery energy storage system with multiple container units for renewable energy integration

Fire hazard of an energy storage system

Conducted at the FM Research Campus, this test evaluates the fire hazards posed by lithium-ion battery-based energy storage systems (ESS), specifically those utilizing lithium-ion phosphate (LFP) batteries.

Hazard insights

Understanding lithium-ion battery hazards

Explore the science, risks, and real-world impact of lithium-ion battery energy systems and learn how to mitigate potential hazards through research-backed insights.

  • row of industrial battery storage units under a solar panel structure at sunset

    Hazards of lithium-ion battery energy storage systems

    A deep dive into the science behind lithium-ion battery hazards, available through FM's Resource Catalog.

    Read more
  • close-up view of lithium-ion battery cells arranged in a metal casing

    Risky business – lithium-ion batteries

    This infographic explores the unique risks lithium-ion batteries pose to property and operations.

  • FM Sound Policy podcast artwork with white text on an orange gradient background

    Sound Policy podcast

    A listen into how research is confronting lithium-ion battery risks.

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Contact our experts

Reach out to our team for expert support and to learn more about how we can help.

Articles

Latest articles and insights

Stay up to date with the latest findings and expert perspectives on lithium-ion battery hazards, storage, and fire protection challenges across industries.

  • industrial battery bank with rows of energy storage batteries featuring red and black terminal caps in a data center or backup power system

    Lithium-ion battery off-gas detection systems recognize the early signs of potential thermal runaway and fire hazards

    The global data center lithium-ion battery market is driving the future of sustainable backup power. As reliance on lithium-ion grows, so do the associated risks.

  • lithium-ion battery production line with automated robotic machinery

    Lithium-ion battery hazards: FM releases first-ever comprehensive guidance

    Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere. Now there’s guidance on storing and manufacturing them.

  • close-up of a battery pack with interconnected cells and wiring

    Hazards of lithium-ion batteries and equipment

    Demand for lithium (Li-ion) batteries is on the rise due to the battery’s high energy density, minimal memory loss, and low loss of charge when not in use.

  • engineer in blue shirt in industrial laboratory with control panels, gauges, and machinery equipment

    What businesses should know about lithium-ion off-gas detection

    Data centers and battery energy storage systems are more of the potential areas where off-gas detection could be useful.