Battery safety in the healthcare sector: A key aspect for patient safety
Lithium-ion batteries are used in many medical devices, from mobile ECG devices to defibrillators and infusion pumps. At the same time, they harbour potential explosion risks. These risks can have life-threatening consequences, especially for devices that have to operate continuously. Battery safety is therefore not only a technical issue, but also a regulatory and organisational one in the healthcare sector.
The RETRON BOX offers preventive fire protection in hospitals and nursing homes. It minimises the risk of a battery fire spreading to the surrounding area and protects patients and staff.
Here are some specific examples of how the RETRON BOX can be used effectively in the healthcare sector:
1. Safe storage of lithium-ion batteries in intensive care units
Challenge:
Numerous battery-powered devices such as ventilators, infusion pumps and patient monitors are used in intensive care units. These devices often require replaceable batteries, which must be stored safely to prevent fires.
Use of the RETRON BOX:
- The RETRON BOX is placed directly in the intensive care unit to store exchangeable batteries under fire-safe conditions.
- Emergency batteries for mobile devices are thus accessible and safely protected at all times.
2. Safe charging of batteries for mobile diagnostic devices
Challenge:
Mobile diagnostic devices such as portable ECG devices, ultrasound devices or blood glucose meters are frequently used in emergency rooms and on wards. Charging these devices harbours fire risks, especially with older batteries.
Use of the RETRON BOX:
- The box serves as a safe charging station for the batteries of these devices.
- Thanks to the cable feed-through, batteries can be charged inside the box without the risk of fire in an open space.
3. Safe storage in hospital pharmacies
Challenge:
Hospital pharmacies often use temperature- and moisture-sensitive devices with lithium-ion batteries (e.g. for automatic medication dispensers). There is a risk of spontaneous combustion when storing spare batteries.
Use of the RETRON BOX:
- Storage of spare batteries for these devices in the RETRON BOX to prevent fires in sensitive areas such as pharmacies.
- Protection of the environment from chemical or thermal reactions in the event of a battery problem.
4. Use in rescue services and mobile medical units
Challenge:
Ambulances and mobile units use numerous battery-powered devices, e.g. defibrillators, oxygen equipment or mobile ultrasound devices. Transporting and storing spare batteries is potentially risky.
Use of the RETRON BOX:
- Batteries for defibrillators and other devices are stored and transported in the box to ensure that they are not damaged in the event of an accident or vibrations.
- Defective or dead batteries can be safely stored directly in the vehicle in the RETRON BOX until they are replaced.
5. Use in research laboratories and diagnostic facilities
Challenge:
Laboratories often use battery-powered devices such as microscopes, analysers or portable sensors. Old or damaged batteries can pose a safety risk.
Use of the RETRON BOX:
- Collection of used batteries from laboratory equipment in the RETRON BOX before they are collected by disposal service providers.
- Use of the box as a safe storage location for spare batteries to ensure safety in research environments.
6. Fire-safe disposal of batteries in large hospitals
Challenge:
Big hospitals have a large number of battery-operated devices, which means that defective or used batteries and rechargeable batteries can quickly accumulate. Unsafe handling can lead to fires.
Use of the RETRON BOX:
- Collection points in different hospital areas (e.g. radiology, intensive care unit) are equipped with RETRON BOXES to safely store batteries on site.
- The boxes are collected and emptied centrally to ensure safety throughout the hospital.
7. Safe storage of solar batteries in hospitals
Challenge:
Hospitals that use photovoltaic systems to supply energy often store the electricity generated in lithium-ion batteries. These batteries pose an increased fire risk due to their chemical properties. Safe storage and disposal are therefore essential to prevent fires or explosions, especially in sensitive environments such as hospitals.
Use of the RETRON BOX:
- Safe storage and transport of used or defective solar batteries in accordance with legal regulations.
- Fire prevention through flame-retardant materials and integrated safety mechanisms that minimise the risk of fires or explosions.
8. Fire protection in care homes
Challenge:
Care homes are also increasingly using battery-powered aids such as wheelchairs, lifts and emergency call systems. A battery fire could be particularly dangerous as many residents are restricted in their mobility.
Use of the RETRON BOX:
- Storing spare batteries for electric wheelchairs and lift equipment in a central, fireproof box.
- Collecting and securing defective batteries until they are collected by a disposal service provider.
By using the RETRON BOX, medical facilities can significantly increase safety when handling lithium-ion batteries while complying with legal requirements. Contact us and let us advise you on your specific application in the healthcare sector and beyond!
