By Daniel Robins (pictured), Projects Director, CheckFire

As technology becomes increasingly integral to education, schools are now filled with a variety of devices powered by lithium-ion batteries. From smartphones and tablets to laptops and e-readers, these rechargeable devices enhance learning but also introduce a significant fire hazard.

Concerning data shows that UK fire services responded to 46% more fires linked to lithium-ion batteries in 2023 compared to the previous year. Moreover, disposable vapes, which also contain lithium-ion batteries, pose a serious fire risk if damaged or improperly disposed of. This has prompted insurers like Zurich Municipal and organisations such as the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA) to issue new warnings about the dangers of vape use in schools.

Despite bans on vaping in or around school premises, a recent Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) survey found that around 18% of 11–17-year-olds have tried vaping. This surge in incidents and statistics – which suggest vapes are present in schools – highlights the need for educational settings to equip appropriate fire safety measures, including specialised fire extinguishers capable of tackling these unique fires.

Understanding the danger in educational settings

The dangers associated with lithium-ion batteries extend far beyond property damage, posing a significant threat to the safety of students and staff in educational environments. Lithium-ion battery-related incidents have led to injuries – including burns, smoke inhalation, and other severe outcomes caused by fires or explosions – and, tragically, fatalities.

National figures indicate that 190 people have been injured in fires related to lithium-ion batteries in the UK since 2020, with 10 of these incidents proving fatal. Given the prevalence of rechargeable devices in schools, it’s crucial to be aware of these dangers and take appropriate precautions to ensure their safe usage.

Causes of lithium-ion battery fires

Lithium-ion battery fires result from a phenomenon known as thermal runaway. This occurs when a battery cell enters an uncontrollable, self-heating state due to factors such as overcharging, overheating, physical damage, or internal malfunctions.

During this process, heat generated inside the battery can cause adjacent cells to also enter thermal runaway, leading to a chain reaction. This can result in battery failure and a fire that’s difficult to extinguish, emitting toxic gases that pose significant risks to both property and life.

The impact on schools

 In an educational setting, the implications of a lithium-ion battery fire can be particularly severe. Schools are environments where large numbers of people congregate in relatively confined spaces. The presence of numerous rechargeable devices, such as tablets, laptops, and other educational tools, increases the risk of such incidents occurring.

Therefore, teaching staff and children must be protected from the risks associated with lithium-ion battery fires. This involves not only understanding the causes of these fires but also implementing measures to prevent them. Educators and administrators need to be aware of the signs of potential battery failure, such as devices overheating or swelling and take immediate action to remove and safely dispose of such devices.

Schools must adhere to the regulations

Given the high stakes, it’s vital that the education sector implements robust fire safety measures to address this escalating threat. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO) provides a comprehensive framework for fire safety in schools, simplifying what is required to ensure compliance and protect users of the building in case of fire. As with any other workplace, the RRFSO mandates general fire safety measures, which include preventative procedures to protect everyone on the premises.

The RRFSO now acknowledges that lithium-ion batteries should be considered in all fire risk assessments carried out in the UK. This is a significant update, reflecting the growing recognition of the unique fire risks posed by these batteries.

This framework also requires a ‘responsible person’ to oversee and be accountable for all measures of fire safety within a school. While in most workplaces the responsible person is typically the employer or anyone with control of the premises, in an educational setting, these duties often fall to senior staff members. This could include the headteacher, vice-chancellor, governor, or occupiers and owners of the premises where the main use of the building (or part of the building) is for educational purposes.

The responsible person(s) must conduct or commission a thorough fire risk assessment to identify potential fire hazards and determine the measures needed to mitigate these risks. They must also implement and maintain these fire safety precautions to protect the safety of ‘relevant persons’ (i.e. all who use the school), including students, staff, and visitors.

Key steps for schools to address rising risk of lithium-ion battery fires

1. Install specialised fire extinguishers: This class of fire requires specific fire extinguisher capabilities in order to tackle it efficiently and effectively. Therefore, it’s important that educational institutions consider the installation of fire extinguishers tailored to these types of fires. For instance, the new CommanderEDGE LFX fire extinguisher range is specifically designed to handle the unique risks posed by lithium-ion batteries found in laptops, tablets, and other rechargeable handheld devices.
2. Collaborate with local fire services: Collaboration with local fire services and adherence to the latest safety standards and regulations are essential. Education authorities can engage with fire safety experts to continually refine their fire safety protocols and ensure compliance with legal requirements. This ongoing partnership can help schools stay updated on the best practices for fire prevention and response.
3. Conduct regular fire drills and training: Regular fire drills and training sessions are vital. The UK government’s fire safety guidelines for schools recommend fire drills be performed at least once a year, and preferably once per term, at varying times of day. Staff and students should be familiar with evacuation routes and procedures, and staff should be trained on how to use fire extinguishers appropriately.
4. Review and update fire safety procedures: Fire risk assessments should be regularly reviewed and updated, especially if there are significant changes to the building or its use. All fire safety equipment, including fire extinguishers, alarms, and evacuation routes, must be kept in effective working order through regular inspections, annual servicing, and maintenance by trained technicians.

Maintaining fire safety standards in the face of lithium-ion battery risks

The rise in lithium-ion battery fires in schools highlights the pressing need for comprehensive fire safety measures. By installing specialised fire extinguishers, collaborating with fire services, conducting regular drills, and adhering to stringent safety regulations, schools can protect students, staff, and property from the devastating impact of these fires. Ensuring robust fire safety in educational premises is not only a legal duty, but also a moral imperative to safeguard the future of our communities.