Currently, there is a distinct lack of regulatory guidance in the NCC for electric vehicles (EVs), and consequently, managing fire safety around these vehicles and their associated charging infrastructure can be quite open to interpretation. Australians are purchasing more EVs than ever before and their uptake has been mandated in some states and territories. Due to this, it is vital that we understand the associated hazards and how they impact the built environment.
Viktor’s presentation will discuss our current understanding of the hazards of lithium-ion batteries in different forms, some basics of EVs and thermal runaway, the impact of charging on the likelihood and frequency of fires, and hazards that are specific to EVs including video examples. Context will be provided throughout by our understanding of hazards associated with internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs). You will leave with an understanding of multiple hazards related to EVs including jet flames and combustible vapour clouds which are unique to EVs and have the potential to cause significant damage to buildings and injury to people.
