Introduction

fire risks associated with green technologies are becoming more common, and in this article you will learn practical, evidence-based steps to protect residents, communal buildings and local assets. I explain the main emerging hazards, the legal and standards context you must consider, and clear, affordable measures community leaders, property managers and responsible persons can take now.

Understanding fire risks associated with green technologies

The transition to low-carbon technologies brings huge benefits. However, several low‑carbon products introduce specific fire hazards that differ from traditional risks. The most visible example is lithium‑ion batteries used in e‑bikes, e‑scooters, electric vehicles and battery energy storage systems. These batteries can undergo thermal runaway, producing intense heat and toxic gases that are hard to extinguish and may reignite. (nfcc.org.uk)

Other emerging sources include on‑site photovoltaic systems and associated inverters, domestic and communal battery storage (including second‑life and repurposed packs), heat pumps with electrical faults, and new fuels such as hydrogen storage or concentrated biofuels in certain applications. Each technology brings different ignition mechanisms and spread patterns. For example, fires that start in communal bike stores from charging e‑bike batteries can rapidly block escape routes in flats. (gov.uk)

Thermal runaway is a rapid, uncontrolled increase in temperature that can lead to violent failure and reignition of lithium‑ion batteries.

Why communities and multi‑occupancy buildings are particularly vulnerable

Communal areas in flats, student accommodation and sheltered housing often serve as informal charging or storage points. Residents may charge e‑bikes or mobility scooters in corridors because there is no safe alternative. This practice places high‑energy devices near escape routes, increasing the likelihood of life‑threatening situations if a battery fails. The Government’s product safety work and detailed incident analysis confirm most e‑bike and e‑scooter fires start with batteries during charging or when damaged. (gov.uk)

Waste and recycling streams are another hotspot. Batteries thrown into household waste can be crushed in refuse vehicles or recycling plants, triggering large fires that cause local disruption and environmental harm. National Fire Chiefs data shows waste fires and incidents involving lithium batteries are rising and cost councils and industry millions each year. (nfcc.org.uk)

Assessing the risk: what a modern fire risk assessment must cover

Start by treating emerging green technologies as a distinct hazard group in your fire risk assessment. That means identifying where batteries, chargers, EVs, PV arrays and hydrogen systems are located, and considering foreseeable misuse such as unauthorised charging or conversion kits. Assess how a failure would affect means of escape, adjoining properties, and fire service access. The Risk Assessment should also document foreseeable waste handling and delivery routes where batteries might be present.

If you need specialist input, Total Safe can carry out tailored surveys and risk assessments and recommend remedial measures. For information on practical services, see the Total Safe fire safety services and read more about our approach on the About Total Safe page.

Practical steps to reduce fire risks associated with green technologies

Firstly, control storage and charging locations. Designate and signpost specific rooms or lockers for charging e‑bikes and mobility scooters. Ensure these areas are well ventilated, clear of combustible materials, and away from escape routes. Where possible, install hard‑wired dedicated charging outlets with overcurrent and isolation protection.

Secondly, adopt policies to manage charging and product quality. Encourage residents to buy from reputable suppliers and to use manufacturer‑approved chargers only. The Government’s safety message for e‑bikes and e‑scooters recommends researching purchases and following manufacturer guidance when charging and storing batteries. (gov.uk)

Thirdly, improve detection and early response. Fit suitable fire detection in bicycle stores and battery storage rooms. Consider aspirating detectors or linkable systems designed for early detection in enclosed spaces. Also provide appropriate firefighting equipment and ensure duty holders understand when to fight a fire and when to evacuate. For larger battery energy storage systems, specialist suppression and monitoring are required; consult guidance and accredited installers. (nfcc.org.uk)

Fourthly, segregate risks and make physical changes. Use fire‑resisting construction to protect escape routes and install automatic fire doors where appropriate. Provide secure, labelled storage boxes for removed or damaged batteries. If a resident reports a swollen or smoking battery, isolate it in a non‑combustible container and call an expert. Local fire services and guidance such as the London Fire Brigade ChargeSafe campaign offer practical advice on storage and warning signs.

Fifthly, plan waste and recycling protocols. Work with council waste teams and private haulage to establish clear instructions: batteries must not go into general refuse and should be taken to approved recycling points. Community campaigns that mirror initiatives such as Tower Hamlets’ Dispose Safe will reduce fires in the waste stream.

Design standards, regulations and where to look for authoritative guidance

Regulation and standards are evolving quickly. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (in England and Wales) places duties on Responsible Persons to assess and control fire risks in communal and workplace areas. For statutory advice and official documents, consult the government guidance on fire safety law and responsibilities. (gov.uk)

Standards bodies are fast‑tracking guidance too. The British Standards Institution is producing codes of practice and Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) that address safe handling and use of vehicle batteries and related systems. These standards help designers, suppliers and building managers apply consistent safety measures. (bsigroup.com)

For industry perspective on battery energy storage systems and wider energy technologies, the National Fire Chiefs Council has position statements outlining the unique hazards and recommended policy actions. These set out concerns on thermal runaway, disposal and regulation, and are essential reading for local authority and emergency planners. (nfcc.org.uk)

Training, communication and community engagement

Training is crucial. Ensure caretakers, concierge staff and resident managers know the steps to take if they find a damaged battery or see smoke. Deliver simple, repeatable messages to residents: use approved chargers, do not charge devices in corridors, and report damaged batteries immediately.

Communicate clearly and often. Use newsletters, noticeboards and welcome packs to set out charging rules and disposal options. Provide illustrated guidance on how to spot a failing battery: bulging, hissing noises, unusual heat or smells are warning signs.

Additionally, build partnerships. Work with local fire and rescue services, Trading Standards and waste teams. These organisations can offer up‑to‑date advice and may support joint campaigns to reduce unsafe products on the market. The Government and OPSS have published specific messages and research on e‑bike and e‑scooter fires to support local action. (gov.uk)

Technical mitigations and investments that pay off

Invest in simple physical controls first. Passive measures such as fire‑resisting enclosures, automatic fire doors and non‑combustible flooring in storage rooms make a big difference. Next, add active protections: monitored detection, automatic suppression or water mist systems for large battery stores, and thermal cameras for high‑value BESS.

For larger installations such as communal battery storage or BESS, involve competent specialists at design stage. Systems should include battery management systems (BMS), ventilation, thermal monitoring and fire‑engineered protection. National guidance notes and NFCC position papers explain the fire behaviour of these systems and outline operational expectations for fire services. (nfcc.org.uk)

When to seek external help

Call in external expertise if your assessment finds significant battery storage, converted e‑bikes in communal areas, or evidence of frequent charging in escape routes. A qualified fire risk assessor can recommend structural changes, detection and suppression upgrades, and resident management policies. For tailored technical work and remedial projects, contact reputable providers rather than using unverified local trades. Total Safe fire safety services.

Conclusion and recommended next steps

The move to green technologies is positive, but it requires updated fire safety thinking. Start by recognising the distinct hazards posed by lithium‑ion batteries, PV systems and other energy storage. Then act: update your fire risk assessment, control storage and charging, improve detection and physical protections, and roll out clear resident guidance. Engage with local fire and rescue services and refer to authoritative guidance from government, NFCC and standards bodies to remain compliant and safe. (gov.uk)

Immediate next steps for community leaders and responsible persons

Review and update your fire risk assessment to include batteries and other green tech.

Create or enforce charging and storage rules for communal areas.

Inform residents about safe product purchasing, charging and disposal.

Arrange a site survey with a competent fire safety provider if you handle significant battery storage or identify repeat unsafe behaviours. For practical support and inspections, contact Total Safe.