Trade thoughts Do you think mobility retailers should be given more guidance on the safety of lithium batteries for customers? “As a manufacturer of both lead acid and lithium batteries, we think it is vital for retailers to offer their customers as much information as possible. Educating users not only prevents risks and hazards but also empowers them to optimise their battery performance. Given the newer status of lithium technology, misinformation is widespread. Retailers bridging this gap by providing accurate details is pivotal. “For instance, many are unaware that lithium batteries are prone to overheating, potentially causing fires, notably when damaged, overcharged, or exposed to high temperatures. Mobility retailers should be knowledgeable on these risks, offering guidance on proper usage, charging protocols, and storage conditions to best avoid these incidents. “By teaching customers about the safety, maintenance, and charging of devices with lithium batteries is essential. Retailers can provide instructional materials, user manuals, and online resources that highlight best practices and safety guidelines. Given the potential dangers associated with lithium batteries, including incidents involving e-scooters, mobility retailers have a responsibility to prioritise safety. “Although lithium is known to have longer lifespans than other batteries they are still going to degrade over time. Mobility retailers should inform customers about the expected lifespan
LEWIS HOLT Technical Manager, Leoch Battery UK of batteries and recommend or offer proper disposal methods as adding them to regular waste can cause environmental harm from potential chemical leakages or fire hazards. “Additionally, it is also important for the mobility retailers to keep on top of their own education. Depending on the region, there might be specific regulations or standards related to lithium battery safety. Mobility retailers should stay informed to ensure that the products meet the required safety standards. “Ultimately, collaboration between manufacturers, retailers, regulatory bodies, and consumers is necessary to establish clear guidelines, promote responsible use, and enhance the overall safety of devices powered by lithium batteries.” www.leochbattery.co.uk
“Mobility retailers should inform customers about the expected lifespan of batteries” 44 | Trade Thoughts | thiis.co.uk
“RHealthcare believes that it is not a matter of more guidance rather than clear and specific guidance relating to the actual product. There is a lot of generic information and assumptions that customers make. Supplying clear and specific guidance for the product is the most important way to ensure that lithium batteries are used safely. “Retailers should have simple and precise instructions available, preferably bullet points letting the customer know how and when to charge, store and check the battery. We are working to produce even clearer instructions, separate from the user guide, to reinforce best practice for the customer, so that they have a safe, and ongoing experience with the wheelchair and battery. “Understanding that the battery should not be run flat; that the battery should not be left on charge overnight; that the wheelchair should be stored in a well-ventilated place at a steady temperature between 15-30 degrees Celsius; and that when the end-user is not using the wheelchair, they remove the battery and store correctly with nothing touching the battery connectors, are basic steps that will ensure the customer has a positive experience with the wheelchair and does not require as much contact with the retailer.” www.dashrehab.co.uk
MATTHEW NELSON Technical Manager at RHealthcare