Lithium-ion (Li-ion) fires are on the rise in WA with the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) responding to over 70 fires by June 2024. The state is well on track to surpass the previous record of 110 Li-ion fires. E-rideables have been the main ignition source for these fires.
We’re aware that some members have started using the devices, integrating them into their fleet, and others are considering the potential benefits. Others still are installing EV charging areas at their facilities. LEVs come with many benefits, however it’s important that members carefully consider and manage the risks they present.
The 2024 WA Local Government Convention over 8 to 10 October was an excellent opportunity to chat with members and talk about the issues that matter to you. Over 650 delegates attended from across the state and we appreciated the effort many made to seek out our team to provide feedback and ask questions.
Members are once again asking questions about fire safety for e-bikes, e-scooters and other light electric vehicles (LEV), alongside the installation of EV charging stations. This is an evolving risk area and members should consider the developing situation.
2023/24 proved an interesting year for the LGIS scheme and our members. There have been inflationary pressures, labour markets have been tight and skilled workers difficult to find, the workforce is ageing, and there has been substantial legislative change including the Local Government Act and a brand-new Workers Compensation and Injury Management Act.
DFES advises that batteries of cheaper products have flooded the market in recent years and are now becoming damaged or reaching their end-of-life. These batteries are being replaced by incompatible alternatives, posing a serious fire risk.
Batteries that enter thermal runaway and explode can start a fire metres away from where they are being charged, potentially engulfing a large area the size of an entire home in a matter of minutes.
Thermal runaway involves violent bursting of one or multiple battery cells, hissing and release of toxic, flammable and explosive gases, and an intense, self-sustaining fire.
There are a range of practical considerations for members when developing policies and procedures to manage the risks presented by the charging of both EV and LEV. The location of charging stations along with their ongoing maintenance also needs serious thought.
The potential risks of a li-ion fire to people and assets are significant. For members, the key concerns are staff use, with regard to fleet, and charging of EV. The installation of EV chargers also needs careful consideration to make sure that installation, management and maintenance of the facility for its lifetime is factored into the acquisition decision.
LGIS has two resources for members on the subject.
Members can also contact the LGIS Fleet Risk team for further information.
The recent WA Local Government Convention was an excellent opportunity to chat with members and talk about the issues that matter to you. LGIS also appreciated the invitation from WALGA to provide members with an update at their AGM on our 2023/24 results and achievements. For more information, our end of financial year reports, A Year in Review and Annual Financial Report, are now available on the LGIS website or you can read the article on page 18.
By their very nature playgrounds have an element of risk, designed to challenge children and deliver development opportunities. They’re valued and sought-after amenities in every local government area across Western Australia. They also come with high levels of expectation from the community that they will be well designed, in appropriate locations and maintained in a condition that ensures safe and enjoyable experiences for children
The claimant (child) was travelling across a bridge in the playground and fell through a confined space causing a broken femur, cuts and bruises. The claimant alleged that the playground was unsafe and had design flaws that didn’t prevent children from injuring themselves.
LGIS is the unifying name for the dedicated suite of risk financing and management services for WA local governments, established by the WA Local Government Association in conjunction with JLT Public Sector (part of the Marsh group of companies). LGIS is managed by JLT Public Sector (ABN 69 009 098 864 AFS Licence 226827).
Risk Matters, via this website, is designed to keep members, their staff and elected members informed on topical risk management and insurance issues and LGIS programs and services.
