BATTERIES


There’s still a long way to go to raise awareness and provide clear guidelines within the regulations to keep those testing and storing batteries safe.


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area. This means researchers can view tests as they happen, from behind hermetically sealed doors, while remaining well away from harm.


As well as putting a safe distance between researchers and the batteries they’re testing, we also aim to minimise the impact of such tests on the environment. Installing a clean air extraction system ensures that no harmful gasses are released into the environment and that in the event of a worst-case scenario, such as a lithium-ion battery entering thermal runaway, the unit will be able to extract the smoke safely and 


To keep people, equipment and the surrounding environment safe during intensive cycle and abuse testing, based  recommend the use of ATEX-rated electrics, gas detection with ATEX sensors, as well  and a blast panel to release pressure in  stainless steel lining to protect electronic components, temperature monitoring systems, and an automated mechanical ventilation response including automatic cut-off for electrical equipment are also worth considering, especially in the most high-risk applications.


Formalising regulations to put 


With a lack of clear legislation governing high energy density lithium-ion battery technologies in the UK, even with the new act now in place, suppliers like S Jones Conversions can only suggest the level of safety features required for each project but


clients have no legal obligation to adhere to them. This situation is one of the challenges facing battery manufacturing and there’s still a long way to go to raise awareness and provide clear guidelines within the regulations to keep those testing and storing batteries safe.


 increasingly guided by insurance stipulations and budget constraints so  containerised units. Our aim is to raise awareness of the risks and ensure that safety is fully considered from every conceivable angle. It’s crucial to make sure units intended for battery storage as well 


their intended use as the minimum required standards often don’t go far enough. We are continuing to advocate for clearer formal safety guidance and regulations surrounding battery manufacturing in the UK. Such guidelines will reduce the risks of accidents or injuries associated with this powerful new battery technology. By driving these conversations and advocating for additional legislation governing the manufacture and storage of batteries in the UK, we will be able to better protect staff and equipment during the development and testing phases and continue to support the development of next generation battery technology.


MARCH 2026 | ELECTRONICS FOR ENGINEERS 39


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