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Safely Handle Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Batteries

Annika Vasagiri
September 2025
Follow these tips to reduce the dangers of lithium-ion batteries on your campus.

Lithium-ion batteries can combust if they aren’t charged or stored properly. Considering their widespread use on campuses, educating your community on safe practices is crucial.

These rechargeable power sources are commonly used in personal electronics and electric transportation devices such as e-bikes and e-scooters. Research labs and robotics teams also may use them, and some campus vehicles — including golf carts — can contain these batteries.

Educate Battery Users

Consider creating a comprehensive guide for charging and storing lithium-ion batteries on campus. Include in the guide:

  • Requiring lab managers and instructors to review safety guidelines if they plan to use such batteries in their labs
  • Reminding drivers of rechargeable campus vehicles to follow your storage and charging requirements
  • Allowing students or employees to keep personal electric vehicles on campus so long as you require registration, inform users of proper charging and storage practices, create safe charging zones outside of buildings and away from fire hazards, and prohibit charging or storage in residence halls or other campus buildings

Safe Charging and Storage Practices

Ensure batteries your institution purchases have been tested at a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories.

In addition, include these tips in your battery safety guidance:

  • Use manufacturer-provided charging equipment, not equipment intended for another device or any improvised charging device.
  • Charge batteries in accordance with manufacturer instructions.
  • Avoid charging devices near flammable items, especially bedding.
  • Don’t charge batteries overnight.
  • Remain present during charging.
  • Unplug batteries once they’re fully charged.

Offer safe storage suggestions:

  • Store batteries in a dry environment at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and fire hazards.
  • Don’t store batteries touching each other.
  • Consider using fireproof bags for storage.

Instruct users to stop using a battery and call for help if they notice:

  • Odors or smoke from the battery
  • Hissing, popping, or other odd noises
  • Swelling or changes in shape
  • Leaking
  • Overheating
  • Visible corrosion or damage to the battery

More From UE

Campus Hoverboard Policies

Create Electric Scooter Policies

Additional Resources

National Science Teaching Association: Lithium-Based Power Supplies — Safety Issues and Protocols Revisited

Columbia University: Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

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