The recently published MGN 681 lithium battery guidance is causing significant changes in the marine industry. This UK-MCA protocol addresses the growing safety concerns due to the increase in lithium-ion battery capacity and numbers onboard yachts, focusing on fireproof containers for lithium-ion batteries to reduce fire risks. The UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (UK MCA) provides detailed guidance on MGN 681, which is available here.
Understanding MGN 681: Fireproof Containers for Lithium-Ion Batteries
The guidance contained in MGN 681(M) is intended to outline best practices related to design, equipment and outfit of dedicated spaces onboard, and to increase safety for handling, charging and stowage of LI-ion batteries and craft.
Many yachts today still have a “throw it over the side” approach. This involves crew members donning firefighting suits and respirators before using a LI-ion fire blanket to physically pick up and discard the burning and explosive items into the sea. The speed and toxicity of these fires could invalidate these measures completely. It would be a massive risk to life and limb for any crew involved, not to mention the environmental impact.
So, what is the answer to this burning issue?
The answer as given by MGN 681 (M) is the installation onboard of dedicated, fireproof containers for storage and charging of LI-ion batteries. LiVault (www.livault.com) has been created in partnership with the leading manufacturer of safety solutions for charging and storing LI-ion batteries. We aim to provide technical advice and solutions for yachts of all sizes to manage the risk presented by these fires.
Currently, the only certified solution on the market is the RACLAN active box. It was developed for the home and commercial markets and is rated up to 1.75kWh. This box has proven the patented technologies within and gained DMT certification. It is available for sale today.
2024 will see the launch of the larger marine RAMBSS modular system which is rated up to 6kWh and comes in 3 height options for all watertoys with integrated or removable LI-ion batteries. This system surpasses compliance with the MGN 681 guideline.
Have questions about MGN 681 compliance or fireproof containers? Contact us for expert advice.
