Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Addressed with Early Release of 2027 International Fire Code® Battery Provisions

Based on recommendations published by the Battery and Energy Storage Systems Ad Hoc Committee, ICC concluded that the recently approved battery safety code provisions in the 2027 IFC safety for current and emerging battery technologies and should be made available immediately, rather than at the conclusion of the standard publishing cycle. The early release of these provisions provides code officials, designers and first responders with the most current, research-based regulatory framework for the safe manufacture, storage, use and recycling of lithium-ion batteries that may be adopted, referenced and applied today.

Releasing the 2027 IFC Chapter 43 battery code provisions as well as guidance tools for local jurisdictions to apply in advance of the complete code publication allows code officials an opportunity to view and consider early adoption of battery provisions for their communities.

The provisions contained in the forthcoming Chapter 43 of the 2027 IFC form a comprehensive, consolidated regulatory framework of five distinct, interrelated categories of battery activity. These include:

• Research, testing, manufacturing and recycling
• Storage and handling
• Micromobility device and equipment safety
• Enhanced fire detection and protection
• Safety for first responders

The 2027 International Fire Code Battery Provisions guide can be viewed and downloaded, here.