Are lithium batteries safe?

When designed, manufactured, and used properly, lithium batteries are a safe, high energy density power source for devices in the workplace. While lithium batteries are normally safe, they may cause injury if they have design defects, are made of low quality materials, are assembled incorrectly, are used or recharged improperly, or are damaged.

What are the OSHA standards for lithium-ion batteries?

While there is not a specific OSHA standard for lithium-ion batteries, many of the OSHA general industry standards may apply, as well as the General Duty Clause (Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970). These include, but are not limited to the following standards:

What are lithium-metal batteries used for?

Lithium-metal batteries are generally used to power devices such as watches, calculators, temperature data loggers, car key fobs, flashlights, and defibrillators. Lithium batteries are generally safe and unlikely to fail, but only so long as there are no defects and the batteries are not damaged.

How do you store a lithium battery?

Store lithium batteries and devices in dry, cool locations. Avoid damaging lithium batteries and devices. Inspect them for signs of damage, such as bulging/cracking, hissing, leaking, rising temperature, and smoking before use, especially if they are wearable.

Are lithium-metal batteries rechargeable?

Lithium-metal batteries are generally non-rechargeable and have lithium-metal electrodes. Lithium-metal batteries are generally used to power devices such as watches, calculators, temperature data loggers, car key fobs, flashlights, and defibrillators.

What is a lithium ion battery?

A lithium-ion battery contains one or more lithium cells that are electrically connected. Like all batteries, lithium battery cells contain a positive electrode, a negative electrode, a separator, and an electrolyte solution.