After a spate of fires from Lithium powered batteries around the world, a comprehensive new guide has been launched to help universities navigate the growing risks associated with lithium-ion battery technologies.
The document is a landmark collaboration between Unimutual and TEFMA, recognising the importance of proactively managing a range of emerging risks.
From electric vehicles and personal mobility devices to maintenance tools and robotics, lithium-ion batteries are reshaping campus operations. But with this transformation comes a new class of risks—thermal runaway events, fire propagation associated with legacy charging installations in older buildings and increasing scrutiny from insurers.
“As the custodians of learning environments, we must be proactive in addressing these risks with foresight and collaboration,” said Geoff Henderson, CEO of Unimutual. “This guidance paper provides an essential roadmap for understanding and managing the fire safety and operational challenges associated with lithium-ion batteries. I recommend this resource to all who share responsibilities for safeguarding our campuses and communities.”
The document is the result of extensive consultation with TEFMA Associate Members and risk professionals from leading universities across Australia. It includes:
- A detailed risk landscape and incident statistics
- Risk control and mitigation strategies tailored to campus environments
- Operational considerations
- Emergency response and recovery planning
- Procurement and disposal protocols aligned with ESG and regulatory frameworks
- Insurance market insights and reinsurer expectations
The Lithium-Ion Battery Guidance for the Higher Education & Research Sectors is now available to Unimutual members via the Member Portal, Mr Henderson said.
“It offers pragmatic, sector-specific strategies to manage fire safety, operational risk, and insurance implications tied to the widespread adoption of battery-powered devices and infrastructure,” he said.
Unimutual’s leadership in developing this guidance reflects its broader commitment to thought leadership in risk management for the higher education sector. By combining technical insight with practical tools, the organisation empowers institutions to not only meet compliance obligations but to elevate their risk maturity and resilience.
“This isn’t just about batteries—it’s about future-proofing our infrastructure,” Mr Henderson added.
“With insurers tightening scrutiny and the pace of electrification accelerating, institutions must demonstrate proactive planning and risk maturity. Unimutual is proud to support our members in that journey.”
The guidance is designed for facilities managers, capital works teams, WHS officers, risk and insurance professionals, and anyone involved in the planning, operation, or oversight of battery-powered systems on campus.
For more information or to access the guidance, Unimutual members can visit the Unimutual Member Portal.