Safer STEM Lithium-ion Battery Safety for K-12 Educators

Understand and mitigate the risks associated with lithium ion batteries and devices.

• Asynchronous online instruction provided by Safer STEM and Rutgers University
• Duration: approx. one hour, at your own pace

In today’s classrooms, lithium-ion batteries power everything from laptops and tablets to e-bikes and robotics kits. But did you know these devices, while incredibly useful, pose significant risks when not handled properly? From fires and explosions to re-ignition risks long after charging ends, lithium-ion batteries demand specific safety protocols that every K-12 educator should know.

This course, Lithium-ion Battery Safety for K-12 Educators, co-presented by Safer STEM and Rutgers University, empowers K-12 teachers with the knowledge and skills to prevent, manage, and respond to lithium-ion battery hazards. Throughout this course, you’ll explore the science behind lithium-ion batteries, why they fail, and how to handle them safely. You’ll learn practical strategies for charging, storage, disposal, and emergency response, all aligned with industry standards like OSHA, NIOSH, NFPA, and ACS.