Inquiry Warned Of Deaths Caused By Lithium-Ion Batteries
Image: Lithium-ion batteries, thrown out in the rubbish, was the cause of a Central Coast garbage truck fire on September 26, 2024. Image: FRNSW/Supplied
An inquiry examining the risks of lithium-ion batteries is ongoing in NSW after several fatalities and fire incidents caused by exploding batteries.
As per reporting from The Guardian, Counsel Assistant in the case David Kell SC explained on Monday, that the investigation will be looking into the lethal dangers of the exploding batteries specifically, and the bad practices leading to their malfunctions. He added that it will also stress the need for a public education campaign to reduce the risks of further fatalities.
The investigation will be executed by Deputy State Coroner Kasey Pearce.
Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable energy batteries and power everything from electric devices like e-bikes and e-scooters, shavers, toothbrushes, to mobile devices and computers.
However, reasons for the inquiry are that the popular batteries pose an imminent fire risk as they can cause “jet-like flames” and toxic fumes. This most often happens when the batteries are handled incorrectly such as with incompatible or cheap chargers, use of worn or damaged chargers, and overcharging the batteries which leads to overheating.
“In the interests of public safety it is critical that people understand the risks and take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones,” Kell said.
Kell also referred back to a fire caused by lithium-ion batteries in a Newcastle suburb in February 2024, which killed two grandmothers after an e-bike’s battery exploded because the wrong screws had reportedly been used to put on the battery cap. This resulted in the battery being pierced and starting an intense fire.
Another fatal incident included a the death of food delivery driver, whose battery was charging 30 centimetres from the foot of his bed whereafter it exploded and caused the delivery driver extensive burns.
The inquiry stated that in 2024, at least 83 fires were caused by e-bikes and e-scooters.
Regulations already implemented
As of 1 November this year, the NSW Government introduced a new $1,100 fining rule, as they have now banned passengers from bringing converted e-bikes onto Sydney Trains, NSW TrainLink or the Metro services.
The government reasoned that the decision to implement these regulations were made due to the growing number of fires caused by DIY setups and poor wiring of lithium-ion batteries found in e-bikes.
Secretary of NSW Transport Josh Murray explained that these changes weren’t about limiting mobility, but about protecting lives and the continued safety on the metro and rail services in the state.
“You may think it is harmless to change your pedal bike to an e-bike using a DIY conversion kit. But if it results in a fire on a packed train or metro service, the consequences could be serious,” he said.
New rules also require businesses to inform buyers on safety procedures when selling e-bikes and scooters.
The inquiry was scheduled for three days, and is set to resume in August next year.
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