Lithium Ion Battery Safety Guidance for New and Returning Residents

Lithium ion batteries are commonly found in laptops, mobile phones, tablets, e bikes, e scooters, power banks, and many rechargeable household items. These batteries are safe when used correctly, but misuse, damage, or poor quality chargers can lead to overheating, fire, or explosion.

To keep everyone in Blackfriars accommodation safe, please follow the guidance below.

1. Only Use Approved Devices and Certified Chargers

• Use manufacturer approved chargers and cables only.
• Avoid cheap, unbranded, or uncertified chargers, plugs, or power banks.
• Do not use chargers with frayed cables, bent pins, scorch marks, or loose connections.
• Never charge a device using a charger that was not designed for it.

2. Never Charge Devices Unattended or Overnight

Lithium ion batteries can fail and catch fire without warning.

Do NOT:

• Charge phones, laptops, vapes, power banks, or any device while you are asleep.
• Leave devices charging when leaving your room.
• Charge devices under pillows, on bedding, or on soft furnishings (risk of heat build up).

Always:

• Charge devices on a hard, non flammable surface (e.g., desk).
• Unplug chargers once the device is full.

3. E-Bikes, E-scooters, Hoverboards

These are NOT permitted inside Blackfriars accommodation, including:

• Rooms
• Kitchens
• Corridors
• Stairwells
• Storage cupboards

They may not be charged, stored, or brought into the buildings under any circumstances.

If you use an e-bike or e-scooter:

• Store and charge it off-site, using facilities designed for this purpose.
• Never bring the battery indoors, even detached.

(This aligns with university wide fire safety guidance.)

4. Avoid Overloading Electrical Sockets

• Use UK compliant extension leads with surge protection, not multi plug cube adaptors.
• Do not plug multiple high wattage devices into a single socket.
• If a charger or plug feels hot to the touch, unplug it immediately.

5. Inspect Your Devices Regularly

Stop using the device and inform the Junior Deans if you notice:

• Battery swelling (“bulging”)
• Cracks, punctures, or dents in the device or battery casing
• A device that becomes unusually hot
• Hissing, popping, or burning smells
• Discolouration or scorch marks on the charger or socket

Do not attempt to repair the device yourself.

6. In Case of a Battery Fire

Do not attempt to extinguish it yourself.

If you see smoke or flames:

1. Raise the alarm.
2. Leave the room and close the door behind you.
3. Evacuate the building immediately.
4. Call 999 once safely outside.
5. Inform the Junior Deans as soon as possible.

7. Safe Storage Guidance

• Do not store electronic devices on beds, sofas, under piles of clothes, or in direct sunlight.
• Keep devices away from heat sources (radiators, cookers, heaters).
• Avoid storing batteries at full charge for long periods; partial charge is safer for long term storage.

8. Purchasing New Devices

When buying new equipment:

• Choose reputable brands with UKCA/CE certification.
• Avoid second hand devices unless you know the battery’s history.
• Check for manufacturer recalls or safety warnings.

If in doubt, ask the Junior Dean (Facilities) before bringing a new high powered device into accommodation.

9. Reporting Concerns

If you notice:

• Damage to electrical sockets
• Overheated plugs
• Scorch marks
• A concerning smell (chemical/burning)
• Repeated fuse tripping

Report it immediately to the Junior Deans.
Do not use the socket or device until cleared.

10. Quick Safety Checklist

Use manufacturer approved chargers.
Charge on hard surfaces only.
Unplug before sleeping or leaving the room.
Keep devices away from bedding and clothes.
Never bring or charge e bikes / e scooters indoors.
Don’t overload sockets.
Report anything unusual immediately.