The fire at a scrap-metal yard on Llay Industrial Estate burned for six days. North Wales Fire and Rescue Service said it was believed to be accidental, with a lithium-ion battery identified as the most likely cause. That is an important distinction: the battery was considered the likely cause, not a conclusively proven one.
The incident is a timely reminder for businesses, farms and households across North Wales to review how they charge, use and store lithium-ion batteries. These batteries power familiar equipment, including phones, laptops, e-bikes, e-scooters and cordless tools. Larger batteries are also used in forklifts and stationary battery storage systems.
Lithium-ion batteries are safe when they are suitable for the device, correctly used and properly maintained. Sensible precautions can reduce avoidable risks.
Why lithium-ion batteries can fail
A battery can become hazardous when it is damaged, overheated or charged incorrectly. Risk factors include:
- Damage from being dropped, crushed, punctured or involved in a collision.
- Excess heat, including charging a battery before it has cooled after heavy use.
- Overcharging or leaving a battery connected contrary to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Poor-quality, incompatible or counterfeit chargers and replacement batteries.
- Charging or storing batteries in hot, damp or cramped locations.
- Modifying equipment or using batteries outside the conditions set by the manufacturer.
A fault can cause a battery to heat rapidly and release flammable gases. The exact behaviour depends on the battery and circumstances. The main practical point is to use compatible equipment, keep batteries in good condition and take warning signs seriously.
Check the battery before use and charging
Inspect batteries regularly, particularly if they are used on busy work sites, farms or in shared workplaces. Look for changes to the casing, signs of impact, loose connections, leaks or unusual performance.
Stop using and charging a battery if you notice:
- Swelling, bulging or a change in shape.
- Unusual or excessive heat.
- Hissing, cracking or other unexpected sounds.
- A strong or unfamiliar smell.
- Leaking, smoke or visible damage.
- A sudden change in charging time or performance.
Do not try to repair, puncture or open a damaged battery. Do not put it back into service. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and seek advice from the supplier or an appropriate battery specialist. If it is smoking or burning, raise the alarm, evacuate, stay outside and call 999. Do not approach it to retrieve belongings or attempt to move it.
Charge batteries with care
Use the charger supplied with the equipment or one specifically approved by its manufacturer. Check the instructions for charge times, temperature limits and storage requirements. Avoid using an unknown or incompatible charger, even if its connector fits.
Choose a stable, hard surface for charging. Keep the battery and charger uncovered, with space around them, and away from combustible materials such as cardboard, paper, fuel, bedding or stored waste. Do not charge on or beside an escape route, in a stairwell or where a fire could block people from leaving.
Charge when someone is awake and able to respond. Do not leave batteries charging overnight or while the premises are unattended. Unplug the charger when charging is complete, as directed by the manufacturer. Avoid overloaded sockets and unsuitable extension leads.
If a battery has become hot during use, let it cool before charging. Keep charging equipment away from very hot, cold or damp areas. For e-bikes and e-scooters, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and do not charge a battery that has been dropped or appears damaged.
The UK Government’s battery safety guidance for e-scooter users advises using the supplied or manufacturer-authorised charger, avoiding unattended charging and keeping batteries off escape routes.
Store batteries in a suitable place
Keep batteries in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location, protected from impact and direct heat. Keep the area clear of combustible or flammable materials. Do not store batteries in corridors, stairwells or other escape routes.
For homes, a separate shed or garage may be suitable if it meets the manufacturer’s storage requirements and is not exposed to excessive heat, cold or damp. If charging or storing a battery indoors, check that suitable fire detection is in place and that the battery will not obstruct an exit.
For workplaces, take a planned approach. Consider where batteries are charged and stored, how many are present, their condition, and whether the activity affects escape routes or other fire precautions. Include battery hazards in the premises fire risk assessment, and review it if new equipment or charging arrangements are introduced. The Government’s guidance for premises managers recommends considering the location and management of charging and storage as part of a site-specific risk assessment.
Consider different equipment and locations
Battery risks are not limited to e-bikes and scooters. A household may have several cordless tool batteries charging at once. A farm may use battery-powered equipment in workshops, stores or outbuildings. A warehouse may charge forklift batteries or operate larger battery storage systems.
For commercial and industrial sites, set clear arrangements for charging, inspection and reporting damage. Keep charging areas orderly and separate from waste, fuels and other combustible stock. Make sure staff know which chargers and batteries are approved, how to report a fault and what to do if they hear, smell or see a problem.
Forklift batteries and stationary battery storage systems require particular attention to their installation, ventilation, isolation, maintenance and emergency arrangements. Do not treat them like small household batteries. Ask a competent specialist to assess the equipment and the site conditions.
When a lithium-ion battery reaches the end of its service life, do not put it in household waste or ordinary recycling. Follow the manufacturer’s or local authority’s advice for safe recycling. The North Wales Fire and Rescue Service also urged responsible battery disposal following the Llay incident, as batteries can cause fires at waste and recycling facilities.
Why alarms and electrical checks still matter
Good charging and storage practices reduce risk, but they cannot guarantee that a fault will never occur. Fire detection and warning arrangements remain important because a battery incident can develop quickly. A suitable, correctly maintained fire alarm system can alert people to danger so they can evacuate and call for help. It does not prevent a battery from failing or make it safe to tackle a fire.
Review whether your fire alarm systems are appropriate for the premises and whether they are tested and maintained. Keep escape routes clear and make sure staff understand the emergency plan. For workplaces storing or charging larger quantities of batteries, seek competent fire-safety advice tailored to the building and activity.
Electrical inspection and testing can also help identify issues with the fixed installation and charging supplies. A qualified contractor can assess the electrical arrangements and advise on any defects or required remedial work. Find out more about Dragon’s electrical services and fire alarm services.
Review your arrangements
Use this checklist to start:
- Identify which lithium-ion batteries are used, charged or stored on your premises.
- Check that batteries and chargers are approved for each device.
- Remove damaged batteries from use and follow appropriate disposal advice.
- Choose charging locations that are cool, clear and away from escape routes.
- Make sure staff know the warning signs and emergency procedure.
- Review fire detection, alarms and electrical inspection arrangements.
- Revisit your risk assessment when equipment or charging practices change.
For additional background on the Llay incident, read The Leader’s report on the fire service’s statement.
Arrange a free survey
Dragon Security & Electrical Ltd provides electrical inspection and testing, fire alarm installation and maintenance, and support for commercial sites across North Wales and beyond. We hold NICEIC and SSAIB accreditations and can discuss your premises, existing systems and next steps. Free surveys are available.
Call 01492 330330 or visit dragonse.com/contact-us. Risco intruder alarm packages start from £499.99 + VAT; terms and conditions apply.
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