I have a customer - a news media image supplier- who uses large lithium batteries as part of mobile video news gathering equipment. (lighting and cameras etc) I am a little concerned that perhaps the batteries should be stored in a flammable storage cabinet (as for paints and thinners) to reduce the risk of a rapidly developing battery fire affecting the MOE before the evacuation is completed. The trouble is they need to be vented to atmosphere when charging. Has anybody had experience with the storage of these batteries???? (youtube 'lithium batteries' + 'fire' to see how well/rapidly they burn and you will see my concern)

As far as I am aware previous reporting of fires under charge were due to short circuiting caised by poor QC during manufacture (debris causing arcing). The majority of these defects were circa 2006-2008. Typically (without defect) ignition during charge should not take place, venting is not necessary as these batteries are sealed units (not open cells). The only time that these would vent (deliberate safety design feature) is when these are subjected to temperature > 423 K. If storing/charging in a box make sure that for single cell the box will withstand circa .5 psi overpressure two or more cells circa 1-2 psi

Thanks for that. The batteries are on permanent charge and do get very warm so the venting is to control the heat. These units are huge. They weigh up to 12 kg each and are the size of a large briefcase. The sheer surface size (like a central heating radiator) can add to the heat build up in a confined space. Another aspect is the risk of physical damage when stored loose +/or on open shelving, as I undersatnd this can cause overheating