The Educator Magazine U.K. May-August 2026 issue. - Magazine - Page 57
The purpose of the fire risk assessment is to identify fire hazards
found around the premises, ascertaining who in particular is at
risk, and implementing preventative and protective measures
tailored to these specific risks. The degree to which batteries are
used, stored, handled, and charged will differ across locations
(classrooms, staffrooms, design technology labs, ICT rooms, or
outdoor e-bike storage for example), requiring fire safety
measures tailored to the specific fire risk present in the
environment.
It is imperative that all with the responsibility of fire safety in an
educational setting understand the unique challenges posed by
lithium-ion battery fires – chiefly because they should be handled
differently to a ‘typical’ fire. The type of fire extinguisher required
to be installed in an environment is determined by the specific
fire risk present, as detailed in the fire risk assessment. Due to its
explosive nature, a lithium-ion battery fire must be tackled with a
specialised fire extinguisher, specifically designed to quickly put
out flames, break down the chain reaction of thermal runaway,
absorb heat, and protect from secondary Class A fires.
Additionally, to ensure compliance with regulations, all fire safety
systems and fire extinguishers installed must be well maintained
and kept in good working order to ensure they are fit for purpose
in the event of a fire; including an annual service by a qualified fire
safety engineer to ensure compliance with British Standards.
Mitigating the growing risks in an educational setting
As is the case with any fire safety plan, lithium-ion battery risks
can be catered for with a targeted, informed, and clearly
communicated approach to fire safety, building usage, and
behavioural adjustments. By making sure there is as little chance
as possible for thermal runaway to happen, schools can mitigate
the risk of lithium-ion battery fires.
Consider the following to ensure the strict management of
lithium-ion battery procurement, charging, storage, and disposal:
• Regular inspection of devices. Conduct visual checks for
damage to the device, swollen batteries, and cracks, ensuring
to replace the device when required.
• Promote safe charging practices. Unplug devices at the end
of the academic day, avoid stacking them when charging,
only use manufacturer-approved chargers, and avoid
charging overnight or for extended periods of time.
• Be mindful of temperatures. Ensure devices are not exposed to
extreme hot or cold temperatures. If they are not in use, store
them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Dispose of batteries safely. Old or damaged lithium-ion
batteries should be disposed of at approved recycling centres
– they should never be put in the bin or incinerated.
• Install lithium-ion battery fire extinguishers. In the event of a
fire of this nature, traditional fire extinguishers are ineffective.
Specialist fire extinguishers, developed specifically for
lithium-ion battery fires, should be installed accordingly for
peace of mind.
• Educate staff and students on proper usage. Ensure all users
of the building are appropriately informed on the proper
usage, charging, and storage of devices containing lithium-ion
batteries. Furthermore, it is highly recommended that policies
are clearly communicated, and that all are aware of the
correct procedure for the reporting of damaged or u
safe-seeming equipment.
The evolving risks: a need for collaboration and education
Enforcement of the RRFSO is typically the responsibility of local
fire and rescue authorities. They will conduct inspections, identify
improvement areas for compliance, issue enforcement notices,
and work with educational institutions to enhance fire safety
procedures. For this reason, collaboration with local fire services
and other fire safety experts is essential if schools are to keep
abreast of the evolving challenges in lithium-ion battery fire risks
and adhere to the latest stringent safety standards and regulations.
With ongoing partnership, schools can continually refine fire
safety protocols and be confident they are acting on best
practices for fire prevention and response, and remain aligned
with the latest RRFSO updates. Fire safety experts can also
provide immense value to fire safety plans, whether offering
guidance on specific lithium-ion risks unique to campus layout
and usage pattern or advising on fire drills with a lithium-ion
battery fire focus. It’s imperative that headteachers, governing
bodies, and facilities teams shift to a proactive fire safety culture
to protect people and property while meeting all legal
compliance requirements.
Lithium-ion battery fires are not a hypothetical threat. This unique
fire risk is very much here and is a growing concern – with fires
now occurring on a more-frequent-than-daily basis – underlining
the necessity for schools, colleges, and universities to take action.
As the use of lithium-ion batteries in the setting becomes more
commonplace, the need for greater awareness increases too.
Responsible persons must consider safe and proper handling
of lithium-ion battery-powered devices as a priority. Improved
understanding, the correct fire safety equipment, clear
protocols, and expert support will go a long way to a more
proactive approach to lithium-ion battery fire safety and reduce
the risk of thermal runaway. But more than this, the true
safeguarding of students and staff depends on it.
