SiP023 – Guidance on Lithium-ion batteries

This guidance covers the increasing prevalence of lithium-ion (li-ion) batteries in port. It is new for 2026 and covers an emerging and developing technology.

Legislation, standards, research and industry practice continue to develop, particularly as larger batteries and end-of-life batteries become more common. Therefore, this guidance will be updated as more examples of best practice become available, as research develops and the technology become more mature.

The guidance is principally concerned with managing the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries in port environments. Electric vehicles are an important application, but the same underlying hazards can arise from many other battery-powered products and systems.

This open access version is available to download free of charge.

PSS members also have access to a more detailed version including additional resources to support the implementation and understanding of this SiP. These resources will be developed over time and include images and videos to facilitate learning, a compliance checklist, and links to relevant PSS safety alerts.

Members are encouraged to contribute to this collection by submitting and relevant resources to [email protected].

PSS member Virsec are developing an online course which is based on this guidance. A discount is available for PSS members wishing to use the learning resources.

Following this guidance is not compulsory and individual risk assessments should always be undertaken by competent individuals before undertaking any port operation. By following this guidance, companies and individuals will normally be doing enough to comply with the law. Health and safety inspectors seeking to secure compliance with the law may refer to this guidance.

Companies operating outside the UK may find the guidance helpful but should note that it refers solely to UK legislation.