PETALING JAYA: Leaving phones, batteries and other lithium battery-powered devices charging unattended could have serious consequences, with stakeholders warning the increased risk of safety hazards.
The Electrical and Electronics Association of Malaysia (TEEAM) said this ranked as among the most common mistakes made, stressing that devices should never be charged on beds or sofas.
“Only do so, on hard, flat surfaces away from flammable materials.
“Avoid leaving charging devices unattended overnight, and immediately isolate any batteries that are swollen, excessively hot, emit odour or show deformation,” it said when contacted.
TEEAM advised the public to only use manufacturer-supplied or certified compatible chargers fitted with Sirim or equivalent certification.
Other common mistakes include leaving devices in hot vehicles, continuing to use visibly deformed batteries, and disposing them along with general household waste.
It cautioned that mishandling lithium batteries can cause thermal runaway, a self-reinforcing chemical reaction where heat inside the cell escalates faster than it can dissipate, potentially leading to fires or explosions.
“Lithium-ion batteries are no longer just emerging risks but are already present given how the rapid use of lithium batteries across consumer and industrial applications has outpaced public awareness on how to handle them safely,” it said.
“At the same time, non-certified or counterfeit cells may have manufacturing defects which can trigger failure under otherwise normal use,” it said.
Among the products where mishandling is most prevalent include the fitting of e-bikes and e-scooters with uncertified aftermarket battery packs and the installation of residential battery energy storage systems without professional commissioning.
Other concerns include the use or storage of cordless power tools outside their rated temperature range.
“Lithium battery devices should only be stored in surroundings with temperatures ranging between 15 to 25°C,” it said.
Such batteries should never be disposed of in regular bins, TEEAM said, noting that crushed cells in compactor trucks pose fire risks.
“Instead, use designated e-waste collection points either at major retailers, local-authority drop off areas or manufacturer take-back programmes,” it said.
Malaysian Federation for Occupational Safety and Health chairman Dr Abu Hasan Samad advised the public to separate batteries from devices if not used for extended periods.
“Keep it in a sealed containment unit to prevent exposure from the elements,” said Dr Abu Hasan, a council member of the National Council on Occupational Safety and Health.
He added that chargers should also be turned off even if leaving an area’s vicinity for a short period.
“The same applies to charging items overnight as anything can happen while you’re asleep,” he said.
On Monday, The Star also reported Fire and Rescue Department director-general Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad warning about the risks that come with the widespread use of lithium ion batteries.
