Network Meeting – Emergency Response – Lithium Battery Fires

PRESENTATOR: Daniel O’Dea, Operational Research Officer, Alternative & Renewable Energy Technology, Fire & Rescue NSW

Topic:        How to safely use, store and charge lithium-ion batteries

Lithium-ion batteries have become ubiquitous with our daily lives, both in our homes and workplaces. They are incredibly useful, storing large amounts of electrical energy which is key to our energy transition. Unfortunately, when they fail, they release large amounts of toxic and flammable vapours causing fires leading to injuries and property losses and in some cases, deaths. This presentation will explore battery types, applications, and current risk profiles to give attendees a better understanding of how to safely use, store and charge lithium-ion batteries.

Literature estimates that 40% of those living with cancer are of working age. As this cohort grows, the potential impact of HR professionals, leaders, colleagues, and friends on work participation and career outcomes becomes profoundly evident.

About the Speaker

Daniel O’Dea is an Operational Research Officer at Fire and Rescue New South Wales (FRNSW). He works with firefighters, industry and government stakeholders to identify and understand emerging risks to first responders and to develop solutions to ensure the safety of firefighters and other first responders. Daniel is currently a representative of the Australasian Fire Authorities Council (AFAC) Alternative and Renewable Energy Technology (ARET) technical group and also a member of the AFAC National Hydrogen Training Program Working Group. Daniel has qualifications and experience across the electrical industry and he has over 20 years’ experience in emergency management and incident response from a variety of roles in Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Police.