New Program Tackles Rising Lithium-Ion Battery Fires in North Queensland
A new waste collection program has been introduced in north Queensland to address a rise in lithium-ion battery fires. The initiative aims to reduce incidents caused by common household items such as electric toothbrushes, cordless vacuums, and e-scooters.
Incident Statistics
Authorities report that lithium-ion battery fires across Queensland have more than doubled since 2022. In the past year, emergency services responded to 260 such fires across the state.
Program Details
The North Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (NQROC) is running the program, which offers free disposal of items containing embedded lithium-ion batteries. These items are then processed interstate.
NQROC waste coordinator Rachel Cunningham noted that many people are unaware that items like electric toothbrushes, shavers, and cordless vacuums contain embedded batteries that reach an end-of-life stage.
"One battery in a bin can cause a fire," posing high risks to human health, life, and infrastructure.
The project seeks to decrease fires within waste networks and enhance safety messaging. Vapes have been identified as the most frequently dropped-off item since the program began.
Participating councils include Burdekin, Charters Towers, Hinchinbrook, Townsville, and Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council. Councils will evaluate the program upon its conclusion in November.
Impact on Waste Operations
Last year, Townsville City Council recorded 24 fires at its waste and recycling sites requiring emergency services. Waste truck driver Kirk Tracey reported experiencing two battery-related fires in his trucks while driving, highlighting the ongoing concern for drivers. He described incidents requiring careful dumping of loads in safe locations to avoid further hazards.
Broader Safety Concerns
Daren Mallouk, head of the Queensland Fire Investigation Unit, confirmed that emergency services frequently respond to reported battery fires, noting an unfortunate increase in serious injuries and fatalities linked to the rising incidents.
E-scooters and e-bikes are frequently involved in starting these fires. Mallouk suggested that the risk from e-mobility devices is exacerbated by the secondhand market, where devices are often sold without chargers, leading users to source incompatible chargers. Using an incorrect charger, one that supplies greater power than the battery is designed for, is a common reason for battery failure and fire.
Residents can drop off embedded batteries at participating council waste facilities until November 15.