Inquest launched to investigate fatal lithium-ion battery fires
A coronial inquest has been launched after 275 lithium-ion battery fires across NSW in the last year.
The Coroner's Court of NSW says it's investigating a number of fatal fires sparked by lithium-ion batteries, found in E-bikes, E-scooters and other electronic items.
FRNSW has responded to more than 275 lithium-ion battery fires in the last 12 months, which averages to five a week.
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Three people were injured in this fire, which was sparked by a lithium-ion battery in Sydney's south earlier this month. Nine
Since the start of the year, 26 people have been injured in a lithium-ion battery-sparked fire.
"My role as the State Coroner is to investigate sudden and explained deaths, fires, and explosions, and recommend changes that could stop tragic mistakes from being repeated," State Coroner Teresa O'Sullivan said.
"We have seen a recent trend of fires being caused by items containing Lithium-ion batteries, including e-bikes and e-scooters.
"Sadly, these fires have resulted in lives being lost."
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CCTV footage of a lithium-ion battery exploding in a Sydney hostel in October 2023, two people narrowly escaped serious injury. Fire and Rescue NSW
The inquest will assess if any changes can be made surrounding the use or sale of lithium batteries to stop similar deaths in the future.
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