Trade industry associations the UK Warehousing Association (UKWA) and the UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA), have worked together to produce practical advice for warehouses on the storage of lithium-ion batteries used to power equipment.

The associations state that Li-ion batteries are vital to decarbonising the economy and the warehouse, however they carry with them a risk that unmonitored batteries can go into “thermal runaway”, causing fire.

The Li-ion battery storage advice was launched at a UKWA event and covers recommendations including storing batteries in cool, dry conditions, limiting long-term storage, and separating battery types. There are also pointers on how to monitor stock, prepare emergency plans and train staff.

Clare Bottle, chief executive of UKWA, says of the advice: “Developments in battery technology are having a huge positive impact, making our lives more convenient, changing the way we move around, and helping the transition away from fossil fuels”. 

“All of these batteries move through the supply chain before ending up in businesses or people’s homes, so it is vital we get the storage and handling of them right,” Bottle continues. “There’s no reason, with proper precautions, that batteries can’t be stored safely.

“Many warehouses are doing so already. This guidance will help others get to grips with the issue and understand how they can manage the risks. It is a market that will only grow, so it’s important the UK has a wide range of warehouse operators equipped with this knowledge.”

David Goss, technical director of UKMHA, adds: “Lithium-ion batteries have been transformative, not only for consumers but also for powering the equipment essential to today’s fast and efficient logistics sector”.

“As with any technology, sensible precautions are necessary to minimise the risk of an incident,” Goss explains. “Whilst lithium-ion batteries have proven safe and reliable, effective risk management requires an understanding of the potential for hazards due to the release of stored energy or chemicals.

“Through this collaboration, UKWA and UKMHA have developed complementary guidance addressing the storage of both industrial truck traction batteries and the smaller batteries in warehouse environments.”