The introduction of lithium-ion batteries and accumulators has radically changed the way in which we store and use energy. Nonetheless, the storage of this type of batteries is not without risk. Which is why the new PGS37-2 guidelines are of capital importance for anyone dealing with lithium-ion batteries.
Not only are these energy sources now ubiquitous in personal appliances such as smartphones and laptops, they are also used in scanners, torchlights, forklift trucks and other electric and hybrid vehicles.
Lithium-ion battery risks
Lithium-ion batteries may become unstable in various situations:
- Overcharging
- Total discharge
- High and low temperatures
- Impacts such as bumps and knocks
At worst, these situation may result in short-circuiting, thermal runaway, risk of explosion and self-combustion. Situations in which toxic substances are released. In addition, lithium fires are impossible or very difficult to extinguish which poses a huge risk to emergency service workers, bystanders and local residents.
Also read: How should you extinguish a battery fire?
PGS 37-2: A vital guideline for the storage of lithium-ion batteries
PGS stands for Publicatiereeks Gevaarlijke Stoffen (Publication Series Hazardous Substances), which set out a series of guidelines and requirements in the Netherlands for the storage and handling of hazardous substances.
Even though the rules currently only apply in the Netherlands, it makes sense to make the relevant preparations and to put in place the appropriate measures in Belgium and France too.
PGS 37-2 is specifically aimed at the storage of lithium-containing energy carriers. It is a detailed set of rules and regulations aimed at minimising the risks surrounding lithium-ion batteries and ensuring workers’ health and safety in the storage of hazardous substances.
The definitive version of PGS 37-2 was published in December 2023.
The requirements impose strict criteria for the storage of energy carriers that contain lithium. These include specific requirements such as the preferred placement at ground level, compartmentalisation, and a 60 to 90-minute fire resistance, especially when batteries are being charged inside the storage cabinet.
The official PGS website has more details about what exactly these guidelines entail.
Preparing for the future
Even though the enshrinement into national law of PGS 37-2 remains pending, it is important for companies and organisations to prepare for compliance. For now, the Informatiepunt Leefomgeving (IPLO) (Living Environment Information Centre) already provides information on how to act in compliance with the PGS Directive: Pre-empting future PGS guidelines | Informatiepunt Leefomgeving
Loxxer – fireproof charging and storage cabinets for lithium-ion batteries
Loxxer’s safety cabinets have been specifically designed to allow for the safe and secure storage and charging of lithium-ion batteries. Unlike other cabinets, Loxxer’s lockers are purpose-designed and thoroughly tested to meet the unique requirements of lithium-ion battery storage, in view of the PGS37-2 guidelines.
Loxxer’s cabinets are optimised to contain fire inside the cabinet, which means they have been awarded the KIWA certificate. This sees the company place a premium on fire integrity.
Be sure to also read: Loxxer – fireproof charging and storage cabinets for li-ion batteries
