Recommendations for the storage of Li-ion batteries from GDV e.V.
- Recommendations for storage according to battery performance class
- Rules for safe battery storage according to GDV
- Have suitable extinguishing agents ready
To date, there is no fixed set of rules or public regulations/laws for the storage of lithium batteries or lithium-ion batteries. The German Insurance Association (GDV e.V.) has compiled a leaflet with recommendations for loss prevention, which is often used as a reference work.
Important to note: The GDV's statements on the storage of lithium-ion batteries are not laws or regulations, but rather recommendations for loss prevention from an association. We will be happy to advise you on the selection of suitable battery cabinets or storage boxes in which you can safely store and transport your lithium-ion batteries.
Recommendations for storage according to battery performance classes
The measures recommended by the GDV for safe storage are based on the capacity of the Li-ion batteries to be stored. A distinction is made between low, medium and high capacity batteries. Below are the specifications of the three performance classes, which depend on the capacity and weight of the batteries:
- Low power Li-ion batteries have a capacity of less than 100 Wh
- Medium power Li-ion batteries have a capacity of more than 100 Wh and a gross weight of less than or equal to 12 kg
- High-capacity Li-ion batteries have a capacity of more than 100 Wh and a gross weight of more than 12 kg
Examples of low, medium and high capacity batteries according to GDV
According to the above classification, e-bike batteries, for example, belong to the medium-capacity batteries, a smartphone or notebook battery to the low-capacity batteries, and the battery of an electric car to the high-capacity class. If, for example, several medium-capacity batteries are stored in one place, the requirements for high-capacity batteries must be met if the gross weight exceeds 12 kg, so the total individual quantity must always be considered.
Rules for safe battery storage according to GDV
The GDV safety rules apply to the storage and provision of lithium batteries and Li-ion batteries in production areas and storage facilities in order to minimize the dangers that can arise from improperly stored batteries. Based on some basic recommendations, which must be observed regardless of the capacity, the recommendations for damage prevention are explained as the capacity of the batteries increases.
Basic rules for the storage of Li-ion batteries
Basic rules apply to the storage of all Li-ion batteries, which must be adhered to regardless of the quantity / capacity stored. For example, the manufacturer's specifications should be observed, external short circuits should be prevented by using appropriate terminal caps and internal short circuits caused by mechanical damage. High temperatures (e.g. due to direct sunlight) should also be avoided. Damaged or defective rechargeable batteries must also be removed from the storage area or stored in a separate area with fire protection.
Storage of medium capacity Li-ion batteries (> 100 Wh capacity; < 12 kg gross weight)
Storage areas for medium-capacity batteries should be structurally fire-resistant (e.g. by storing them in an appropriate battery safety cabinet) or physically separated, whereby a distance of 5m must be maintained. Mixed storage with other products that can have a fire-accelerating effect should also be avoided. In addition, a suitable fire alarm system should be installed in the storage area that works with suitable battery extinguishing agents. For large quantities / storage areas (area > 60m² and / or height > 3m), the following instructions for high capacity batteries apply.
Storage of high-capacity Li-ion batteries (>100 Wh capacity; > 12 kg gross weight)
The GDV only makes very limited comments on these Li-ion batteries for loss prevention, but refers to the examination of each individual case. Possible measures mentioned here - similar to those for medium-capacity batteries - include limiting quantities and separation, as well as storage in fire-resistant, separate areas or compliance with minimum distances.
Further information on the storage of special battery types
In addition to the general information from the GDV listed here, we have also provided further information on the safe storage of special battery types. You can find it here:
Have suitable extinguishing agents ready
The GDV guidelines primarily relate to the storage of lithium-ion batteries, e.g. in suitable battery cabinets or in appropriate battery storage boxes. At the same time, the GDV refers to a suitable fire alarm system with suitable extinguishing agents. In addition to this system, it can also be useful and advisable for companies to have manual extinguishing agents to hand for initial fire containment measures in the event of problems with the stored batteries.
Fire extinguishers and fire blankets for batteries
In addition to rechargeable battery fire extinguishers, extinguishing blankets for rechargeable batteries should be mentioned here in particular, which can be used to cover problematic Li-ion batteries and thus bridge the period until the fire department arrives. For private individuals who frequently use and store e-bike batteries, for example, suitable storage options and aids are also available that can help extinguish an e-bike battery so that the damage can be contained. Important to note: In the event of a battery fire, especially with larger batteries, the fire department must be called out. Private individuals cannot and should not contain or extinguish such fires on their own responsibility.