Managing fires in small-scale lithium-ion batteries
This event is intended to discuss the topic of fires within personal devices containing lithium-ion batteries, such as electric scooters, bikes, and disposable vapes. This session’s speakers will focus on their first-hand experience in assessing and responding to fires of this type, providing recommendations for design measures that can be used by fire engineers and certifiers to better facilitate the safety of firefighters and occupants in the built environment.
Learning Outcomes:
In this presentation you will learn about:
Firefighting response procedures and experiences in attending fires in small lithium-ion battery devices.
The factors influencing the occurrence of fires within Lithium-Ion batteries.
Design recommendations and future considerations for engineers and certifiers to consider in built environment designs for these devices.
About the Speakers
Manager State Fire Investigation Unit , Queensland Fire Department
Inspector Daren Mallouk is Manager of the State Fire Investigation Unit with the Queensland Fire Department. He has a distinguished career in emergency services, specialising in fire origin and cause investigations, and brings extensive expertise in emergency and disaster management. Daren’s qualifications include a Graduate Diploma in Emergency Management, Graduate Diploma in Strategic Leadership, Graduate Certificate in Applied Management, Graduate Certificate in Fire Investigation, and a Bachelor of Emergency Service. He is internationally credentialed as a Certified Fire Investigator (CFI) through the International Association of Arson Investigators and holds EMPS Certified Fire Investigator accreditation via the Australasian Fire Authorities Council.
Operational Research Officer Firefighting , Fire and Rescue NSW
Daniel O’Dea is an Operational Research Officer with Fire and Rescue NSW, specialising in emerging risks to first responders. With over 24 years of experience in emergency management across FRNSW and NSW Police, Daniel leads research into operational impacts of new technologies. He represents FRNSW on the AFAC Alternative and Renewable Energy Technology (ARET) Working Group and works closely with industry and government to address the growing risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, including thermal runaway, extreme fire behaviour, and responder safety. Daniel’s background in the electrical industry supports his focus on evidence-based solutions for complex, evolving hazards
