Untested products and incorrect charging practices are drivers of growing lithium-ion battery fire risks, according an IAG-backed research project.

The study’s early findings also show fire risk rises significantly when batteries are damaged, exposed to saltwater flooding or subject to repeated impacts – a common issue with devices such as e-bikes and e-scooters.

IAG Research Centre head Shawn Ticehurst says the growth of Australia’s lithium-ion battery market is outpacing the development of safety standards.

“Consumers can easily purchase low-quality, often untested products online, and they aren’t getting the information they need about safe charging practices,” he said.

“By better understanding how battery condition and charging habits contribute to fire risk, we can help establish the guidelines needed to keep people safe.”

The project – announced last month – is a collaboration with Queensland University of Technology, EV FireSafe, Standards Australia and other specialists.

It aims to understand and reduce risks and comes as the number of reported fires involving lithium-ion batteries continues to rise.

It is forecast that this year, the average household will have about 33 devices powered by the batteries.

The research also aims to inform national standards and guidelines for safe disposal of batteries.

QUT’s Energy Storage Research Group head, Joshua Watts, says Australia can learn from jurisdictions such as New York.

After the US state introduced safety measures and invested more than $US1 million ($1.49 million) in a public education campaign, deaths linked to lithium-ion battery fires dropped to six in 2024, down from nearly 30 deaths and hundreds of injuries between 2021 and 2023.

“Today in New York, retailers can no longer sell e-bikes or batteries unless they meet UL accreditation, a national safety standard,” Professor Watts said. “Refurbished batteries are banned, and retailers who repeatedly offend can be shut down. The measures have worked.”

The research has found batteries in electric vehicles are proving safer than others.

“There’s virtually zero fire risk if an undamaged EV is charged correctly,” Mr Ticehurst said. “EV battery fires are extremely rare – they have advanced battery management systems that prevent overheating and overcharging, and the packs are built with strong, fire-resistant casings that stop heat from spreading.”

The full research findings are expected to be published this year.