Search

Caught on Tape: Two Lithium Battery Fires in 2018

Posted on 3/5/2018 by Roger Marks

Two lithium battery fires have been caught on camera recently, as aviation regulators continue to work to prevent these incidents with guidance and regulatory requirements for passengers, crew, and shippers alike.


Battery Toasts TSA X-Ray Machine at Denver Airport

A lithium-ion battery used to power a “vape pen” caught fire in a TSA X-ray machine at the Denver International Airport on January 30. 
 
According to investigators, a passenger disassembled the vape pen before placing it in his carry-on bag, leaving the lithium-ion battery exposed. Loose lithium-ion batteries can experience short circuits when they contact conductive metals in keys, coins, zippers, etc. When packed outside of equipment, lithium batteries must be protected against short circuit. Travelers can accomplish this by placing spare batteries in a plastic bag. 
 
 

WATCH: Check Out Our 5 Lithium Battery Safety Tips on Youtube

 Vape pens, now sold in endless varieties and under an astounding array of brand names and labels, may contain lithium batteries that do not meet UN specifications. What’s more, end users have been known to “customize” these devices with after-market modifications that may impact battery performance and safety. 
 
Buying from trusted manufacturers is an advisable first step for consumers concerned about lithium battery safety in the home or workplace—but even that won’t prevent every incident.  


Battery Power Bank Delays Flight to Shanghai

On February 25, a lithium battery power bank set aflame in the overhead compartment during boarding of a Shanghai-bound China Southern Airlines flight. Thankfully, the flight was still on the ground at the time, passengers disembarked from the plane, and no one was injured. The flight was delayed for three hours.<  

 


191 Lithium Battery Aviation Incidents Since 1991

US FAA recently reported that as of January 24, 2018, nearly 191 air/airport incidents involving lithium batteries had been recorded since 1991. Add the two above (and any others you’ve seen since January 24) to get the up-to-date tally.

Shipping Lithium Battery Training (DOT, IATA, and IMDG)

Simplify the complex rules you must know to package, mark, label, and ship lithium batteries--big, small, or excepted; in equipment, with equipment, or by themselves; by ground, air, or vessel. 

lithium_batteries_cellphone_stack.jpgThis lithium battery online course provides general awareness, security awareness, and function-specific training for managers and personnel who ship lithium batteries. Learn you need to know to certify compliance with 49 CFR, IATA DGR, and IMDG Code regulations for 2018. Don’t risk rejected shipment, civil penalties up to $78K, or a serious incident in transport. Get the training you need to ship lithium batteries with confidence

Plus, get the FREE Lithium Battery Safety Online Course to satisfy OSHA and DOT hazmat safety training standards. 

Tags: DGR, hazmat shipping, IATA, lithium, lithium batteries

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

I have over 26 years of environmental compliance experience, and it has been some time since I have attended an environmental regulations workshop. I attended this course as preparation for EHS Audits for my six plants, and it was exactly what I was looking for.

Frank Sizemore

Director of Regulatory Affairs

The instructor made the class enjoyable. He presented in a very knowledgeable, personable manner. Best class I've ever attended. Will take one again.

John Nekoloff

Environmental Compliance Manager

Excellent job. Made what is very dry material interesting. Thoroughly explained all topics in easy-to-understand terms.

David Hertvik

Vice President

I had a positive experience utilizing this educational program. It was very informative, convenient, and rewarding from a career perspective.

John Gratacos

Logistics Manager

This course went above my expectations from the moment I walked in the door. The instructor led us through two days packed with useful compliance information.

Rachel Stewart

Environmental Manager

I really enjoyed this training. Even after years on both sides of the comprehension coin, I find myself still learning! The quality of the delivery exceeded much of the training I have received in the past.

Neil Ozonur

Safety Officer

I love that the instructor emphasized the thought process behind the regs.

Rebecca Saxena

Corporate Product Stewardship Specialist

The instructor clearly enjoys his job and transmits that enthusiasm. He made a dry subject very interesting and fun.

Teresa Arellanes

EHS Manager

Lion Technology workshops are amazing!! You always learn so much, and the instructors are fantastic.

Dorothy Rurak

Environmental Specialist

The instructor took a rather drab set of topics and brought them to life with realistic real-life examples.

Tom Berndt

HSE Coordinator

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

Decrease spill, release, and injury risk and increase savings with these "source reduction" strategies to prevent unused chemicals from becoming regulated as hazardous waste.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.