Cordless power tools have transformed construction sites, giving workers greater mobility and efficiency. However, the lithium-ion batteries powering these tools can also introduce serious fire hazards.
As battery-powered equipment becomes more common, lithium-ion battery safety is an increasingly important part of workplace safety. A recent NFPA Journal article, “Cordless Revolution,” highlights the risks associated with using, charging, and storing lithium-ion batteries on active jobsites.
Why Lithium-Ion Batteries Can Become a Fire Hazard
Lithium-ion batteries store a significant amount of energy in a small package. If a battery becomes damaged, overheated, overcharged, or defective, it can enter a process known as thermal runaway.
During thermal runaway, a battery cell begins heating uncontrollably, potentially causing neighboring cells to fail. This can result in an intense fire that spreads quickly, releases flammable and toxic gases, and may even reignite after appearing to be extinguished.
Construction environments can increase these risks. Cordless tools and batteries are frequently exposed to heat, dust, vibration, impacts, heavy use, and temporary charging setups. Batteries may also be dropped, crushed, improperly stored, or repeatedly charged throughout the workday. These conditions can damage battery cells or components, increasing the risk of overheating, failure, and potentially thermal runaway.
Lithium-Ion Battery Safety on Construction Sites
Proper storage, charging, and handling can help reduce lithium-ion battery fire hazards. Important safety practices highlighted in the NFPA Journal include:
- Inspect batteries and chargers for damage, overheating, or swelling.
- Use manufacturer-approved or compatible batteries and chargers.
- Keep charging and storage areas away from combustible materials.
- Avoid leaving batteries charging unattended overnight.
- Isolate damaged or defective batteries.
- Keep battery storage and charging areas away from exits and congested areas.
- Train workers to recognize the warning signs of thermal runaway and understand proper emergency procedures.
NFPA 241, Standard for Safeguarding Construction, Alteration, and Demolition Operations, also provides guidance for managing fire hazards during construction projects.
Safety Training Helps Build a Safer Workplace
As tools and technology continue to evolve, workplace safety practices must evolve with them. Understanding emerging hazards, including those associated with lithium-ion batteries, helps workers recognize warning signs, follow safe work practices, and respond appropriately when something goes wrong.
Effective safety training helps build that awareness before an incident occurs. LBA University offers 100% online workplace safety training covering OSHA requirements, electrical safety, PPE, occupational health and safety, and other hazards workers may encounter on the job.
Build knowledge. Recognize hazards. Work safer.
Explore online safety training at LBAUniversity.org.
Source: James Pecz, “Cordless Revolution,” NFPA Journal, Fall 2026.
