Identify the presence and type of rechargeable batteries

The presence of rechargeable batteries may not always be clear. Personnel should look for signs, labels or other indicators, such as:

• Heavy-duty orange cabling
• Sources of renewable energy, including:
  • Solar panels
  • Electric motors
  • Wind turbines

Early identification, along with briefing personnel about the potential hazards, can mitigate the risks associated with rechargeable batteries.

Industrial or commercial sites

For industrial or commercial sites, personnel should gather information from responsible persons or Site-Specific Risk Information (SSRI) about the type, location and quantity of rechargeable batteries present and any fixed installation systems.

It may be appropriate to use fixed installations systems, such as extraction vents, to remove the vapours emitted by rechargeable batteries. For further information refer to Fires in buildings – Manage fixed installations.

Residential properties

The availability of information about the presence of rechargeable batteries in residential properties will be less readily available. However, it should be assumed that newer-build residential properties are likely to have some level of rechargeable battery technology and personnel should be briefed about the potential locations of this hazard.

Information about the presence and location of rechargeable batteries may be available from residents of the affected or neighbouring properties.

Alternative fuel vehicles

For information about the identification of batteries in vehicles refer to Transport – Roadways: Alternative fuel vehicles.