IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL RESIDENTS
December 16, 2022
With the recent fire at an apartment building in Midtown caused by a lithium ion battery (see https://www.cnn.com/2022/11/05/us/manhattan-apartment-fire-injuries/index.html) and the proliferation of lithium powered devices we are all accustomed to seeing/using (phones, cameras, tooth brushes, bicycles, scooters, etc.), we want to provide a guide for safe handling, charging and storing of devices powered by lithium ion batteries.
A full safety guide, of which there are many, can be viewed at https://humanpoweredsolutions.com/safe-lithium-ion-battery-storage-and-charging-procedures-for-the-ebike-shop/
Briefly, the following are a few key tips of which to be aware:
Procurement
Purchase batteries from a reputable manufacturer or supplier.
Avoid batteries shipped without protective packaging (i.e., hard plastic)
Inspect batteries upon receipt and safely dispose of damaged batteries.
Storage
Store batteries away from combustible materials.
Keep batteries from contacting conductive materials, water, seawater, strong oxidizers and strong acids.
Keep all flammable materials away from operating area.
Charge or discharge the battery to approximately 50% of capacity before long-term storage.
Disconnect batteries immediately if, during operation or charging, they emit an unusual smell, develop heat, change shape/geometry, or behave abnormally. Dispose of the batteries.
Charge and store batteries in a fire-retardant container like a high quality LiPo Sack when practical.
Allow time for cooling before charging a battery that is still warm from usage and using a battery that is still warm from charging.
Do not place batteries in direct sunlight, on hot surfaces or in hot locations.
Remove batteries from the device for long-term storage.
Store the batteries at temperatures between 5°C and 20°C (41°F and 68°F).
Separate fresh and depleted cells (or keep a log).
If practical, store batteries in a metal storage cabinet.
Avoid bulk-storage in non-laboratory areas such as offices.
Visually inspect battery storage areas at least weekly.
Charge batteries in storage to approximately 50% of capacity at least once every six months. Chargers and Charging Practice
Never charge a primary (disposable lithium or alkaline) battery, store one-time use batteries separately.
Use chargers or charging methods designed to charge in a safe manner cells or battery packs at the specified parameters.
Remove cells and pack from chargers promptly after charging is complete. Do not use the charger as a storage location.
Do not parallel charge batteries of varying age and charge status; chargers cannot monitor the current of individual cells and initial voltage balancing can lead to high amperage, battery damage, and heat generation. Check voltage before parallel charging; all batteries should be within 0.5 Volts of each other.
Do not overcharge (greater than 4.2V for most batteries) or over-discharge (below 3V) batteries. Handling and Use
Handle batteries and or battery-powered devices cautiously to not damage the battery casing or connections.
Inspect batteries for signs of damage before use. Never use and promptly dispose of damaged or puffy batteries.
Consider cell casing construction (soft with vents) and protective shielding for battery research and experimental or evolving application and use.
Disposal
Dispose of damaged cells and cells that no longer hold a substantial charge. To check the general condition of your cells, charge them, let them rest for an hour, then measure the voltage. If your cells are close to 4.2V, the cells are in good condition.
Dispose of used batteries by taking them to an e. Media bin (if less than five pounds) or by completing an Online Chemical Waste Collection Request.
— Management