A recent EV fire in an underground car park of an apartment complex in South Korea serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with electric vehicles (EVs) in residential buildings. The rapid spread of the fire and toxic smoke, originating from a parked Mercedes-Benz EQE, underscores the heightened risks associated with EVs in enclosed spaces.
The severity of the incident is underscored by the fact that firefighters took over eight hours to extinguish the blaze. Approximately 70 vehicles within the underground car park sustained damage from the EV fire. Most alarmingly, the incident resulted in smoke inhalation for 20 residents, including children, highlighting the potential health risks associated with such fires.
The Risks of an EV Fire in an Underground Car Park
The unique challenges posed by an underground car park in conjunction with the increasing prevalence of EVs have created a complex fire safety scenario. These structures, often characterised by poor ventilation and limited escape routes, can amplify the dangers of a fire. Moreover, the specific characteristics of EV batteries, such as their propensity for thermal runaway and the challenges involved in extinguishing such fires, further exacerbate the risks.
Safety Considerations for Strata Communities
For strata corporations with underground car parks, this incident should serve as a catalyst for reviewing safety measures. Key considerations include:
- EV Charging Infrastructure: If your building offers EV charging, ensure it adheres to the latest safety standards and is regularly inspected.
- Fire Safety Equipment: Verify that the building’s fire safety equipment, including sprinklers, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers, is adequate and regularly maintained.
- Emergency Procedures: Develop and communicate clear emergency procedures for residents in the event of a fire in the car park.
- Resident Education: Educate residents about the potential risks of EV fires and the importance of following safe charging practices.
- Insurance Coverage: Review the strata corporation’s insurance policy to ensure it adequately covers damages caused by EV fires.
It’s important to note that EV fires are still relatively rare compared to traditional petrol-powered vehicles. However, the potential consequences when they do occur demand a proactive and comprehensive approach to safety. While the transition to electric vehicles offers numerous benefits, it is essential for strata corporations to be proactive in managing the associated risks. Strata committees should consider long-term strategies to mitigate risks. This may involve exploring alternative parking options, such as dedicated EV charging areas with enhanced safety features, or advocating for stricter regulations on EV battery safety.
The investigation into the cause of the South Korean fire is ongoing, and further information may emerge about the specific factors that contributed to the incident. By proactively addressing the challenges posed by EV fires in underground car parks, strata communities can significantly enhance the safety and well-being of their residents.
Article author:
The Lookupstrata Team
This post appears in Strata News #707.
Have a question or something to add to the article? Leave a comment below.
Read next:
- NAT: Risks to strata owners from lithium-ion battery fires
- Officials ban fully-charged electric cars in underground parks in one city due to fire concerns
- NSW: Strata Crisis Management: Be Ready When the Unexpected Strikes
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Have a look at the real statistics as opposed to what the press is reporting. The vast majority of vehicle fires involve ICE vehicles, primarily due to fuel-related issues, mechanical failures, or accidents. On the other hand electric bike and scooter batteries are not subject to the same high levels of manufacturing quality control as compared to EV batteries. Electric bikes and scooters should not be charged inside buildings – common property or otherwise unless they are contained within fire proof containers.
Hi Pete
We agree. We discussed this with Daniel O’Dea from Fire and Rescue NSW in our recent National webinar: Risks of e-bikes and e-scooters to strata owners.