The Institut Pasteur's Security Department would like to draw your attention to the fire risk associated with lithium batteries. Although these batteries are now crucial for our daily activities – they are used in smartphones, laptops, electric scooters, hybrid vehicles and many other devices –, they can be dangerous.

Dangerous scenarios include: 

• Using an unsuitable or faulty charger 

• Physically damaging a battery (dropping, puncturing, impact)

• Exposing a battery to high temperatures (exposure to sun or to a heat source)

• Aging and wear, or poor upkeep of the battery

• Storing or charging the battery in a poorly ventilated area

To help you counter these risks, the Security Department would like to share a series of best practices with you:

• Only use the charger and battery that came with the device

• Do not leave a device to charge unattended

• Avoid overcharging devices for extended periods and disconnect devices once they have finished charging

• Keep batteries away from heat sources and sunlight

• If the battery bulges, leaks fluid or smells strange, stop using it immediately and dispose of it at an approved collection point

•  For workplaces, a ventilated, secure storage space should be provided, with suitable fire extinguishers (type D or dry powder)

• Never recharge a damaged battery (bulging, misshapen, punctured, etc.)

• Do not cover the battery while it is charging

• Always disconnect the battery once it has finished charging

Find out more about lithium batteries

Consult the practical information sheet issued by INRS (in French)

For any questions or comments: surete@pasteur.fr