Lithium-ion batteries

Unfortunately, we’re seeing a significant increase in property fire claims caused by lithium-ion batteries, so we’ve collated advice to help prevent fires and keep properties and people safe.

The direct impacts of fire and / or explosion are clear from a health and safety perspective, including the potential for serious injury and / or loss of life.

Join our in-house experts, risk manager Madeleine Cavanagh, claims property manager Rebecca Rogers and underwriting property manager John Wray, as they explain the risks of lithium-ion batteries, how your customers can mitigate these and the underwriting considerations to be aware of.

Developing and maintaining drivers' skills is key to managing a safe and efficient EV fleet.  EVs have different features and functions to petrol or diesel vehicles, so driver training should look to include different topics.

To work on EVs safely, there’s a need for technicians to receive adequate information, instruction and training.

This can take various forms including manufacturer specific training, in-house training and external training delivered by trade bodies.

When arranging a charging point, the premises and physical location needs to be considered. 

Some chargers can be easily accessible and as they contain metals such as copper means they’re attractive to thieves. They’re also easily re-sold second hand online, which has led to the rise of stolen charging cables.

As more and more people choose to use e-bikes and e-scooters for commuting and personal use, emergency services and insurers are seeing a worrying increase in fires.

One alternative to fossil fuels is an emerging technology referred to as ‘Battery Energy Storage Systems’, or ‘BESS’ for short. As the name suggests, these devices allow energy from renewables to be stored and then released when it’s most needed. But are these devices really a ‘silver bullet’ or a hazard waiting to happen?