Research, labs and drones
Experimental cells, LiPo & bare cells
Who this applies to
Researchers and technicians using specialist, experimental or "bare" cells (e.g. 18650s); engineering, robotics, surveying and film production teams using drone and LiPo batteries.
Critical chemical hazard — laboratory batteries
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If a laboratory battery vents, Hydrogen Fluoride (HF) gas may be released. HF is a critical chemical hazard — colourless, highly corrosive, and toxic even at low concentrations. Evacuate the area immediately and call 999. Do not re-enter. Notify the Fire Safety Team. |
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✓ Do • Include battery hazards in local DSEAR Risk Assessments • Tape the terminals of loose or bare cells (e.g. 18650s) to prevent short circuits • Use fire-resistant containment — LiPo bags or metal bins — for experimental charging • Charge under constant supervision |
✗ Do not • Leave experimental or high-energy-density charging unattended • Use cells with punctured or compromised outer wrappers • Store bare cells loose without terminal protection |
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A local risk assessment and specialist operating procedure must be in place for all non-standard, high-quantity or experimental battery use. Contact the Fire Safety Team for guidance |
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✓ Do • Use balance chargers and supervise throughout the entire charge cycle • Inspect packs after every impact or hard landing • Store in fire-rated LiPo Safe bags or metal enclosures • Discharge packs to storage voltage if not in use for more than a few days |
✗ Do not • Charge "puffed" or swollen packs under any circumstances • Store loose packs in bulk without individual terminal protection • Leave LiPo charging unattended |
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✓ Do • Include battery hazards in local DSEAR Risk Assessments • Tape the terminals of loose or bare cells (e.g. 18650s) to prevent short circuits • Use fire-resistant containment — LiPo bags or metal bins — for experimental charging • Charge under constant supervision |
✗ Do not • Leave experimental or high-energy-density charging unattended • Use cells with punctured or compromised outer wrappers • Store bare cells loose without terminal protection |
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A local risk assessment and specialist operating procedure must be in place for all non-standard, high-quantity or experimental battery use. Contact the Fire Safety Team for guidance |
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✓ Do • Use balance chargers and supervise throughout the entire charge cycle • Inspect packs after every impact or hard landing • Store in fire-rated LiPo Safe bags or metal enclosures • Discharge packs to storage voltage if not in use for more than a few days |
✗ Do not • Charge "puffed" or swollen packs under any circumstances • Store loose packs in bulk without individual terminal protection • Leave LiPo charging unattended |
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Swollen (puffed) LiPo packs must be removed from service immediately. Place in a LiPo Safe bag and contact the Fire Safety Team for safe disposal advice (INSERT LINK). |
Storage of research and LiPo batteries
Store all research and LiPo batteries in fire-rated containers, away from combustible materials. Do not store in occupied rooms overnight without appropriate containment. Bulk or long-term storage arrangements must be agreed with the Fire Safety Team (INSERT LINK).